The Gathering of Manna 1595 - 1596

Alessandro Allori created this tapestry, "The Gathering of Manna," in Florence, Italy, sometime in the late 16th century. It depicts the Israelites collecting manna from heaven, as told in the Book of Exodus. The tapestry is rich with visual codes and cultural references characteristic of Florentine art under the Medici dukes. Consider the idealized figures and the emphasis on narrative clarity, reflecting the era's values. The luxurious materials and intricate weaving speak to the economic power and artistic patronage of the Medici court. Woven tapestries served as portable displays of wealth and power, often commissioned to celebrate dynastic events or to furnish lavish palaces. Analyzing such works requires looking at the tapestry's biblical sources and the social function it served. Research into Florentine court culture and tapestry production helps us understand its creation and meaning. Through historical context, we discover how art reflects and shapes its world.