Triptych - Taddeo Gaddi

This triptych by Taddeo Gaddi (c. 1330) exemplifies the portable devotional altarpieces produced by Giotto's most devoted pupil and longtime workshop assistant. Taddeo spent twenty-four years in Giotto's bottega, longer than any other student, and became the principal heir to his master's monumental style. After Giotto's death in 1337, Taddeo emerged as the leading painter in Florence, securing major commissions including the Baroncelli Chapel frescoes in Santa Croce.

Painted in egg tempera on panel with gold ground and original engaged Gothic frame, the triptych's three hinged panels allowed the owner to open and close the work for private devotion. Taddeo's figures display the robust volumetric modeling inherited from Giotto, with warm earth tones and clear spatial arrangements.