Description
The Stefaneschi Triptych is one of the most complex and ambitious works of Giotto's mature period. Commissioned by Cardinal Jacopo Caetani degli Stefaneschi for Old Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, it was designed to be viewed from both sides, a feature that explains its extraordinary iconographic richness and unusual narrative structure. On one face, the central panel shows Christ enthroned in majesty, surrounded by angels and accompanied by Cardinal Stefaneschi in devotion.
The side panels present two subjects fundamental to Roman Christian tradition: the crucifixion of Saint Peter and the martyrdom of Saint Paul. These episodes directly connect apostolic authority, the city of Rome and the basilica for which the work was made. The violence of the event is contained within a rigorously ordered composition enriched by details derived from hagiographic tradition.





