AMADEO (OMODEO), GIOVANNI ANTONIO

AMADEO (OMODEO), GIOVANNI ANTONIO. - Lombard architect and sculptor (1447-1522), who brought decisive Renaissance characteristics to the Lombard tradition. His early work was the sculptural decoration (capitals) of the cloister of Pavia and, according to A. Venturi, *The Dance of the Angels* in S. Eustorgio. In the Colleoni Chapel (1475), a felicitous union of architecture and sculpture, Amadeo demonstrates his sensitivity, which results in an exuberant decorative style—undoubtedly a remnant of lingering Gothic taste, yet one that reveals a sincere adherence to original and fully Quattrocento traits. In this sense, as well as within the Lombard tradition, the statue of Medea Colleoni represents a definitive achievement. Other examples of Amadeo’s tireless activity include the edicule of Captain Tarchetta in Milan Cathedral (1480) and the monuments to St. Francis and St. Airaldus in Cremona Cathedral (1481). From 1481 to 1515, as architect of Milan Cathedral, Amadeo worked on the construction of the tiburium, completed its interior, and erected the "guliotto" that bears his name. He also attended to the construction and ornamentation of the façade and the two cloisters of the Certosa of Pavia, assisted in this and other works by a large following of collaborators.