Frescoes in the crossing vault – Allegory of Poverty Giotto di Bondone (1266-1337)

The composition presents a procession of figures against a gilded background, creating a sense of ethereal elevation and otherworldly significance. A group of individuals, seemingly young women or boys, are arranged in a linear formation, their gazes directed upwards and slightly outwards, suggesting reverence or anticipation. Each figure is framed by a golden halo, reinforcing their symbolic status as blessed or divine entities. The clothing varies; some wear simple robes, while others are adorned with more elaborate garments, hinting at distinctions within the group without disrupting the overall sense of unity.
At the lower left corner, a solitary figure in blue appears to be observing the procession from below. His posture and expression convey humility and perhaps longing, establishing a visual contrast between the elevated realm of the figures above and the earthly perspective of the observer. The presence of this individual introduces an element of narrative tension – is he a supplicant, a witness, or something else entirely?
Above the procession, partially obscured by the arrangement of figures, are inscriptions in Latin: Spes (Hope) and Brevitas (Briefness). These words serve as crucial keys to understanding the paintings allegorical nature. The inscription “Spes” suggests a promise or aspiration linked to the group’s actions or identity. “Brevitas,” on the other hand, implies transience, brevity of life, and perhaps a call for humility in the face of mortality.
The gold background is not merely decorative; it functions as a symbolic representation of heaven or divine light, further emphasizing the spiritual significance of the procession. The limited color palette – primarily golds, blues, pinks, and greens – contributes to the painting’s overall sense of serenity and solemnity.
Subtly, the artist has created an image that is both visually appealing and intellectually stimulating. It invites contemplation on themes of faith, hope, mortality, and the relationship between the earthly and divine realms. The arrangement of figures, the symbolic inscriptions, and the use of color all work together to convey a complex message about human aspiration and spiritual understanding.