Nardo di Cione
ItalyNardo di Cione
Nardo di Cione was a renowned Italian artist, sculptor, and architect from Florence in the 14th century. His full name was Leonardo, not Bernardo as erroneously written by the biographer Giorgio Vasari.
Early Life and Family
Cione's father was likely a jeweler, which was closely related to the craft of painting during medieval times. The Cione family was well-known for their artistic skills, and their workshop was considered one of the finest in Florence in the 14th century. Cione's exact date of birth is unknown, but he had brothers named Andrea (Orcagna), Jacopo, and Matteo.
Artistic Style and Collaboration
While his brother Orcagna gained more fame and recognition, Nardo di Cione developed a unique and distinct style. He was known for his expressive, yet lyrical and poetic paintings. Cione exhibited a keen sensitivity to color, using it for subtle differentiation and gentle modeling.
The Cione brothers often collaborated on projects. For instance, they worked together on the decoration of the Strozzi Chapel in Santa Maria Novella. Orcagna painted the altar, while Nardo executed the frescoes depicting the Last Judgment, Paradise, and Hell.
