Andrea Pisano
When you visit the Baptistery in Florence you will stop to admire its three bronze doors but did you know that the earliest one the south door was sculpted by Andrea Pisano? This famous Italian was a sculptor and architect of the Gothic period.
Andrea Pisano, also known as Andrea da Pantadera, was born in 1270. He began his career as a pupil of Giovanni Pisano. He became extremely popular after he came under the influence of Giotti. After Giotti, Andrea Pisano became the next Master of Works at the Florence Duomo (Cathedral).
One of his finest works still stands testimony in Florence. It is the exquisite bronze door at the baptistery in Florence. It has a number of quatrefoil panels. Figures of the Virtues are depicted in the lower panels. They include portrayals of Hope and Faith on the left. On the right panels Charity and Humility have been portrayed. Below these you can find Fortitude and Temperance on the left and Justice and Prudence on the right. The other panels depict scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist. Saint John is considered as the patron saint of Florence.
Andrea Pisano also produced many marble sculptures all under the influence of Giotti for Museo dell’Opera dell Duomo, Florence. He carved stone reliefs for the Campanile (Bell Tower) of Santa Maria del Fiore.
He later became Master of Works at the Orvieto Cathedral. He was succeeded by his sons who were also master sculptors and artists. His chief student Andrea di Cione became very famous under the name Orcagna. Andrea died around 1349 leaving behind a legacy of sculptures as well as became renowned for nurturing the talent of his sons and pupils.