Christ in Limbo

A complex symbolism of forms and images, dictated by the humanist philosopher Giovan Battista de Leone, governs the structure and images of the Candlestick, executed by Riccio between 1507 and 1515. The imitation of the Antique, in its twofold purpose of spurring the rediscovery of lost aesthetic harmonies in every aspect of nature and of giving Christian moral and religious values the clearest artistic guise, drives the artist to display a highly erudite repertory of classical figures in the luminous flow of the bronze relief.