Madonna of Mercy

Fascinating principally for the view of the Duomo's original late 14th century Venetian-style façade (destroyed in 1682 to allow for the expansion of the church), the plaque, like its many similars, probably served to mark a Milanese building belonging to the cathedral. In the plaque, in rather good condition, the Madonna, aided by two angels, spreads her protective mantle over the church. The large and inexpressive faces of the figures reflect the style of Foppa. Probably purcahsed by the Bagatti Valsecchi brothers at the end of the 19th century, the plaque and two others (depicting the Madonna and Christ Child) belonging to the museum (one of which is attributed to the well-known workshop of Bonino da Campione) are still displayed--as are all other objects in the museum--in their original places in the mansion's courtyard, thus contributing to the authentic "time capsule" ambiance.