The Cross of the Treasure of Sain John, recto, detail, 1457-59

Florence, Museum of the Opera del Duomo (Museum of Florence Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore): 'The Cross of the Treasure of St. John: the recto. 'The Cross of the Treasure of St. John: the verso. This cross is a splendid example of Renaissance jewelery, sculpted in silver foil, chiseled and enameled by Betto di Francesco Betti, Antonio del Pollaiolo and Miliano di Domenico Dei between 1457 and 1459 approximately. It was commissioned to complete the silver altar. The Cross-monstrance is made up of three distinct main parts: the Crucifix, the stem and the base. The front face is characterised by adoring angels, St. John the Baptist in the centre of a small temple designed in the Brunelleschi’ style, two Doctors of the Church within medallions, two figures of mourners, the Golgotha and the Cross.