Abstract

Michelangelo’s plans are discussed in connection with Sansovino's plan for a centralised building, which won the competition held under Leo X for S. Giovanni dei Fiorentini, and with the basilica planned by Antonio da Sangallo, which the Florentine brotherhood began in its place. The question is then raised as to why Duke Cosimo insisted on the central building, even though construction of the basilica was already well advanced. A closer look reveals that Sansovino’s and Michelangelo’s projects feature a baptismal font. Apparently, the Medici favoured the central structure not only as a formal ideal, but above all with reference to the Florentine Baptistery because of its significance as a national institution and because of the special Florentine baptismal rite. Florentine particularities were also adapted for the masses in S. Giovanni dei Fiorentini.

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