Cimabue's Madonna Carried in Procession
1853-55
Imagine the biggest art reveal party of the 13th century! This vibrant scene captures the legendary moment when Cimabue's famous Madonna icon was triumphantly carried through the streets of Florence to its new church home. The young artist himself, dressed in pristine white, strides proudly alongside his masterpiece, basking in the adoration of the crowd. When Frederic Leighton unveiled this massive canvas at the Royal Academy in 1855, it caused an absolute sensation—Queen Victoria loved it so much she bought it on the spot, instantly making the 25-year-old artist a superstar.
Location: National Gallery, London
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