3-081-024 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Lorenzo de Medici, 1525-1549. A leading figure of one of the most influential families in 15th century Florence. The marble original (1524-1531) is in the sacristy of the church of San Lorenzo, Florence. The statue is a part of the monument erected to the memory of Lorenzo de'Medici, in which he is flanked by two allegorical figures, representing "Dawn" and "Dusk". On the opposite side of the sacristy, another group comprises a statue of Lorenzo's brother Giuliano and two figures representing "Day" and "Night". The figure of Lorenzo, deep in thought, is sometimes referred to as "il Pensieroso" ("the Thinker"). The pose was inspired by classical models such as the "Belvedere Torso". His brooding pose - with forefinger pressed to his lips as if commanding silence - has been interpreted by some as reflecting his authority during hard political times but may also be suggestive of his concerns with the great problems of life.