GADDI, TADDEO

(active c. 1328-1366)

One of Giotto's pupils, principal assistant, and most faithful follower. Cennino Cennini claimed inIl libro dell'arte, written in c. 1400, that Gaddi was also Giotto's godson and that he worked for him for 24 years. Taddeo's most important commission is theBaroncelli ChapelatSanta Croce, Florence(1332-1338), one of the largest in the church. The scenes here depict the life of theVirgin, her parentsJoachimandAnne, and Christ. Some have suggested that Giotto provided the designs for thefrescoessince the chapel'saltarpiece, theBaroncelli Polyptych, is signed by him. The stained glass window in the chapel, which showsSt.Francisreceiving the stigmata (the wounds of thecrucifiedChrist), is also by Taddeo. One of Taddeo's most ambitious works is theTree of Lifeof c. 1340 in therefectory of Santa Croce, one of the earliest examples of refectory decoration. It depicts a complex genealogical theme related to theFranciscan Order, meant to inspire contemplation. Taddeo also worked as architect, providing plans for the rebuilding of the Ponte Vecchio and Ponte Trinità in Florence (destroyed in the 16th century) after the Arno River flooded in 1333.