Early Medici Patronage and the Confraternity of the Buonomini di San Martino

Abstract

Medici confraternal patronage is usually associated with public spectacle. Nevertheless, the bonds that this family forged with smaller lay brotherhoods (though the intent was perhaps equally political as with larger groups) can reveal a contrasting view of the clan. Previous studies concerning the confraternity of the Buonomini di San Martino are few and fall primarily within the field of social history. This interdisciplinary article considers the form and function of the fresco decoration in the confraternity’s oratory in tandem with fresh, unpublished archival data. This, in turn, provides historical, factual information about the structure and activities of the confraternity, its cultural environment and the generosity of its illustrious patrons. Concentrating on Medici confraternal patronage from 1469 to 1492, this article explores changes in Lorenzo de’ Medici’s confraternal needs and ultimately demonstrates how the munificence of il Magnifico and his assassinated brother, Giuliano, was recorded and celebrated by the Buonomini.