Description
The National Gallery's Pentecost formed the final scene of a horizontal dossal comprising seven episodes from the life and Passion of Christ. The panel shows the apostles gathered inside a loggia as they receive the Holy Spirit, represented by a white dove beneath the central gable. Small tongues of fire appear on their heads, while several figures beyond a balustrade listen in astonishment to the miraculous event.
Giotto organizes a complex narrative through simple and highly effective architecture. The loggia is divided into three bays beneath gables and includes a coffered ceiling, shuttered windows and a balustrade decorated with Cosmatesque panels. The architecture separates those receiving the Holy Spirit from those trying to understand what is happening. On either side of the central gate, two young men lean their heads and bodies inward to hear more clearly, introducing a vivid observation of everyday behavior.





