00scheme Benozzo (Benozzo di Lese) Gozzoli (c.1420-1497)

The composition presents a complex visual schema, structured around a central, radiating motif and organized into distinct horizontal tiers. At the apex resides a figure representing St. Francis in glory, from which emanate lines connecting to several prominent figures arranged along the upper perimeter: St. Louis of France, St. Catherine of Siena, St. Bernardine of Siena, St. Anthony of Padua, and St. Clare of Assisi. This arrangement suggests a hierarchical relationship, with St. Francis serving as the ultimate source or exemplar for these individuals.
Below this celestial sphere, a series of narrative scenes unfolds across three distinct walls – North, East, and South – each delineated by architectural elements that mimic the structure of a basilica. The North wall depicts events from the life of St. Francis, beginning with his birth and pilgrimage, progressing through moments of spiritual revelation and renunciation, culminating in visions and encounters. The scenes are presented sequentially, suggesting a chronological progression.
The East wall features three figures – Petrarch, Dante, and Giotto – positioned centrally, implying their significance as cultural or artistic commentators on the events depicted elsewhere. Their placement suggests an intellectual framework for understanding the narrative unfolding around them.
Finally, the South wall mirrors the North in its depiction of key moments, including renunciation, encounters with religious figures (St. Dominic), and ultimately, St. Francis’s death. The inclusion of The Bishop of Assisi dresses St. Francis introduces a formal element to the narrative, highlighting institutional recognition.
A horizontal band at the bottom of the composition labels each section, providing textual context for the visual events. Along the base are repeated depictions of “Tertiaries,” indicating a broader community or order associated with the depicted narratives.
The overall effect is one of deliberate organization and symbolic layering. The schema transcends a simple chronological recounting; it appears to be an attempt at synthesizing religious narrative, artistic representation, and intellectual commentary within a unified visual framework. The architectural framing reinforces this sense of structure and purpose, suggesting that the events depicted are not merely isolated incidents but part of a larger, divinely ordained order.