The Truth about Constantine: History, Hagiography and Confusion
Diana Webb
In about 1380 the choir of Franciscan church Florence, Santa Croce, was decorated by Agnolo Gaddi with scenes illustrating legend Holy Cross. The emperor Constantine does not appear in these frescoes, although it understood that his conversion had moved mother Helena to undertake her archaeological expedition Land discover whereabouts It is, nevertheless, unseen presence links Gaddi’s cycle frescoes life and miracles Saint Silvester, painted Maso di Banco nearby Bardi Vernio chapel a generation earlier. Here emperor, afflicted leprosy, recoils from advice pagan priests he should bathe blood innocent children is advised apostles Peter Paul dream obtain remedy must send for persecuted pope Silvester. Silvester shows portraits apostles, thus authenticating vision, cleanses him leprosy baptism. remaining illustrate saint, notably quelling dragon been terrorising Rome resuscitation two magicians who overcome it.
Studies in Church History