Coronation of the Virgin (Uffizi)

This painting, to be found in the Uffizi in Italy, was one of two by Fra Angelico along the same theme of the Coronation of the Virgin. The other can be found in the Louvre in Paris.

This version immediately contrasts from the Louvre version in that it uses far more gold within the background which leaves a grander finish. Fra Angelico would apply gold to many of his paintings and it was a common technique at this time. The painting was completed around 1432 although most of the artist's work is hard to attribute a precise date.

This painting is smaller than the later version in the Louvre but in some ways more eye-catching with the aggressive use of gold. It is possible that for Fra Angelico's follow up work he felt more confident and willing to attack a larger panel. Both stand out by themselves as fine artworks, regardless of anything else that Fra Angelico may have done in his career.

During the Renaissance the frame was at times considered an element of the painting and in this example Fra Angelico would continue the golden theme into the elaborate frame which completes the piece. This may have been influenced by Gothic artistic styles which were still prevolent during the 15th century.

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence ranks amongst the finest art galleries in all the world and is a fitting venue for some of the most famous Renaissance paintings and sculptures, particularly considering that it was in the city of Florence that, arguably, it all began. Perhaps the highlight of the whole venue is the floor devoted to Michelangelo's sculptures.