Painted probably towards the end of the 1510s, this panel clearly shows the profound impression that Leonardo’s Last Supper had on Bramantino, as we can see in the monumental composition of the work. The painting is extremely interesting also in terms of its symbolism: the Madonna enthroned has the Child on her knees, in the act of handing a stylised palm to Saint Ambrose, who is identified by the mitre at his feet and by the scourge resting on the throne. The palm is a reward for his victory over Arianism through his pastoral actions and writings. This is symbolised by the corpse of Arius, shown in a daring foreshortening at the foot of the Milanese prelate. On the right is the Archangel Saint Michael, whose emblems – the scales and the sword – rest one on the throne and the other on the predella, and who is shown handing the animula, the symbol of a dead soul, to the Infant Jesus. The frog lying dead on its back at his feet symbolises malignity defeated.
Annual international conference of the Society of Friends of Port-Royal is held, October 13-14 2023, Sala delle Accademie E.R. Galbiati.
An exhibition that aims at reconstructing the "considerable collection of books” belonging to Don Ferrante, which Alessandro Manzoni describes in the Promessi Sposi (The Bethroted).
The combo ticket Duomo + Ambrosiana is available in a new version which includes also the Ascent on foot to the Duomo terraces and access to the San Sepolcro Crypt.
Every Saturday at 15.30 a guided tour of the masterpieces of the Pinacoteca, together with professional guides of our official partner AdArtem
On Sunday October 1 and Monday October 2, free admission for all grandparents with their grandchildren
