Tomb of Carlo Marsuppini

Carlo Marsuppini (died 1453) was Leonardo Bruni’s successor as Chancellor and his tomb was installed opposite as if in competition with Bruni’s monument. It was designed by Desiderio who had probably assisted Rossellino on the Bruni monument. Here, emphasis has been placed on profuse ornament and figures as opposed to architecture. Every element is more copious in the later work, including the longer, more laudatory epitaph. Although some of the outward humanist trappings of Bruni’s are repeated, the effect is very different. Grandeur and monumentality are sacrificed for richness and elegance. Desiderio’s technique defies the marble and resembles wax, glowing like illuminated alabaster.