Twelve terra cotta medallions sent by Pope Leo X to Cardinal Wolsey originated from the workshop of Benedetto Grazzini. Known professionally as Benedetto da Rovezzano, the Italian architect and sculptor established a career spanning from his origins in Pistoia to the royal courts of England, ultimately shaping both ecclesiastical structures and complex bronze funerary monuments during the sixteenth century.
Early Career in Florence
Born in 1474, Grazzini adopted the surname Rovezzano after the Florentine quarter where he resided. During his time in Italy, he practiced within a professional climate that began to emphasize the architect as an individual with a distinct signature and theoretical approach. His contributions to the local landscape included the Pandolfini Chapel and the cloister of the Badia Fiorentina. He also completed the portal of the Church of Santi Apostoli and the marble cenotaph for Pier Soderini located in the church of the Carmine. His sculptural versatility was further evidenced by the tabernacle of St. John the Evangelist at Santa Maria del Fiore and three specific bas-reliefs displayed in the church of San Salvi, as well as the San Salvi washbasin.
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In 1524, Grazzini relocated to England at the request of Cardinal Wolsey. His primary task involved the construction of a grand tomb for the Cardinal. When Wolsey lost favor with the crown, King Henry VIII took over the commission, overseeing the project's development. The design for this tomb included four large bronze candlesticks, each measuring nearly three metres in height. These pieces were later acquired in the 17th century by Bishop Anthony Triest and remain housed within Saint Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent. Four bronze angels, now part of the collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum, were also crafted as part of this extensive funerary project.
Legacy and Final Years
Grazzini worked during an era when the foundational definitions of architecture were under scrutiny. While he spent years serving royal interests in England, he eventually returned to Italy, where he died in 1554 at the age of 80 in Vallombrosa. Several of his works, such as the remains of the monument dedicated to St. John Gualbert and a chimney piece, are currently preserved in the Bargello Museum. His architectural output continues to serve its purposes centuries after his death, fulfilling the functional endurance typical of the discipline.
Fast facts
- Born: 1474, Pistoia
- Died: 1554, Vallombrosa
- Primary occupations: Architect, sculptor
- Notable work: The Wolsey Angels
- Notable work: San Salvi washbasin
- Migration: Moved to England in 1524
Questions readers ask
Why is he known as Benedetto da Rovezzano?
He adopted this name from the quarter of Florence where he lived.
What happened to the bronze candlesticks he designed for King Henry VIII?
They were acquired by the Bishop of Ghent in the 17th century and are now located in Saint Bavo's Cathedral.
Achievements
- Notable work: San Salvi washbasin
- Notable work: The Wolsey Angels
