The Gathering of Manna

Art Historical Context

In the opulent world of late Renaissance Florence, *The Gathering of Manna (1595–96) stands as a magnificent wool-and-silk tapestry, an impressive 14 by nearly 15 feet. Designed by the Mannerist master Alessandro Allori in collaboration with weaver Guasparri Bartolomeo Papini it vividly depicts the biblical miracle from Exodus, where heavenly manna sustains the Israelites in the wilderness. Bustling with men, women, and children eagerly collecting the divine gift—rendered as fruit amid blooming flowers and playful putti—this scene bursts with abundance and joy, characteristic of Florentine tapestry artistry. Tapestries like this were prestige objects for palaces and churches, showcasing the Medici court's patronage of the arts. Allori's design reflects Mannerism's elegant elongation and rich detail, translated into silk's luminous sheen and wool's durable texture for enduring vibrancy. Woven in Florence's renowned workshops, it exemplifies the era's fusion of painting and textile techniques, where intricate cartoons were scaled up by skilled artisans. Acquired by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2004, this tapestry invites visitors to ponder themes of providence and communal harvest, a timeless reminder of faith's nourishment in Renaissance Italy.