Fra Angelico's Earliest Altarpiece Returns to Fiesole After Restoration Reveals Hidden Throne
The Fiesole Altarpiece, painted by Fra Angelico between 1420 and 1423, has returned to its origins in San Domenico, Fiesole, following restoration efforts by conservator Daniele Rossi, supported by Friends of Florence. This restoration revealed previously concealed elements, including the original throne design obscured by later work from Lorenzo di Credi in the 1500s. Advanced infrared reflectography techniques allowed the true details to emerge, highlighting Fra Angelico's signature colors and style. Additionally, the altarpiece’s wooden structure was reinforced with a new chestnut framework. This work will be featured in a major exhibition at Florence's Palazzo Strozzi and Museo di San Marco from September 2025 to January 2026.
Key facts
- Fra Angelico's earliest surviving altarpiece, the Fiesole Altarpiece, has been returned to San Domenico in Fiesole after restoration.
- The restoration was funded by Friends of Florence and led by conservator Daniele Rossi.
- Infrared reflectography revealed a hidden throne design by Fra Angelico beneath Lorenzo di Credi's overpainting.
- The altarpiece was created between 1420 and 1423 for the church at San Domenico in Fiesole.
- Lorenzo di Credi modernized the altarpiece in 1501, converting it from a triptych to a single image.
- The restoration removed aged varnish and overpaint, revealing Fra Angelico's delicate colors and gold.
- The wooden support was stabilized with a modern chestnut system with springs.
- The altarpiece was a highlight of the Fra Angelico exhibition at Palazzo Strozzi and Museo di San Marco in Florence from September 2025 to January 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Fra Angelico
- Lorenzo di Credi
- Masaccio
- Filippo Lippi
- Simonetta Brandolini
- Daniele Rossi
- Roberto Buda
- Guido di Pietro
- Antonella Ranaldi
Institutions
- Friends of Florence
- San Domenico in Fiesole
- National Gallery in London
- Palazzo Strozzi
- Museo di San Marco
- San Domenico
- Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi
- National Gallery
- Florence and Prato's cultural heritage office
Locations
- Fiesole
- Italy
- Florence
- London
- United Kingdom