CIAMBRAGINA #10

The figure in question, a true "superstar" of the era, was known by the nickname "Ciambragina."
Giovanni De Rossi, one of the most prominent and wealthy merchants of fabrics and precious stones at the time, fell madly in love with this young woman during one of his business trips to Cambrai, France. He married her and brought her to Siena, where she was called Ciambragina, the Lady of Cambrai.
The merchant then purchased a majestic residence to serve as both a workshop for his craft and a palace for his Ciambragina. She thus found herself surrounded by fine fabrics and precious stones.
In no time, Ciambragina became an iconic figure. She was, in every sense, the most beautiful and elegant woman of the time, desired by every man and envied by every woman for her marvelous and incredible dresses.
Every festive occasion was eagerly awaited, as people looked forward to seeing what dress Ciambragina would wear and how beautifully she would carry it.

Every year, in Serre di Rapolano, a young woman is chosen during their historical parade to portray Ciambragina.

My interpretation of this figure aims to be a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing composition, while also giving a face and form to best represent this intriguing story.

To avoid shifting the focus from the main wall, I decided to create a purely ornamental design on the secondary wall, with draped fabric resembling a stage curtain above the door.

Ever since my mother created a curtain drapery in my parents' living room, I've always been fascinated by it. Finally, I've had the opportunity to make use of this small yet inspiring element that has always had a positive impact on me. So, I reused the same fabric from the backdrop of the main mural and, with the help of the original drapery creator, I recreated in the studio what I then transferred onto the wall.

Thank you, Mom.

Special thanks to the patrons of the artwork: @serremaggio
It’s always a pleasure visiting you.

Muse: Ambra Cotti
Photo reference by: Antonio Cavalieri
“Medieval” dress: Carla Deiana
Makeup artist: Aurora Pallini