7. Santa Maria
Formosa,
by Vivarini
This beautiful triptych by Bartolomeo Vivarini sits at home in the
inviting
church of Santa Maria Formosa, not too far away from Calle del
Paradiso. The central panel shows Mary being crowned by two angels. She
protects a large group of worshipers. The side panels (not shown)
depict the encounter of Joachin and Saint Anne and the
birth of the Virgin. Vivarini was born in Venice in 1432
and died in Murano after 1491. This work is dated and signed (1473).
How to get there. Form Calle del Paradiso, cross Ponte
del Paradiso to Fondamenta del Dose, right in front of you there will
be a door with the sculpture of a turbaned-man's head above it. Vivaldi
once lived there. Turn right and cross Ponte dei Preti and continue on
Fondamenta dei Petri. The church of Santa Maria Formosa will be in
front of you to your left.