ICCROM Mora Samples Collection
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Bianzano: MRA-ITA-Bia001

Type Sample Item

Sample ID

MRA-ITA-Bia001

Sample Material Type

Mural painting

Sample Sub-type

fragment

Dimensions (cm)

Length
2.4
Width
2
Height
0.5

Weight

weight value (g)
2.3

Geographic Location

Country
Italy
Place
Bianzano

Site/monument

Italy (ITA)
Bianzano
Castello di Bianzano

Historical note about the site/monument

Due to lack of written documentation, the construction date and original function of the castle remain unclear. At least from the 14th century the structure seems to have belonged to the Suardi family. When later the Republic of Venice ordered the demolition of all fortifications, the castle was spared by some clever rebuilding: its battlements were removed and a roof was added. The structure seen today is square with irregular defensive walls and a tall tower. The base of the tower features mid-14th-century frescoes. A small inner atrium also holds mural paintings including a cycle depicting the four virtues.

Further reading:
Seville, Isidore of. "Art, artifice, and the rise of the vernacular." Painted Palaces: The Rise of Secular Art in Early Renaissance Italy: 43.

Chronological period (sample)

13th-14th century

Inventory