IACOPO (LAPO) TEDESCO. – Legendary architect of the 13th century, whom Vasari, in the second edition of the Vite (1568), says came from Germany to construct the basilica of S. Francesco of Assisi (by which he thus intends to explain its transalpine features), and the author of many other buildings. He is also said to have been the father of Arnolfo di Cambio.
The documents contradict this latter assertion, as well as the attribution to him of many works (the bishopric of Arezzo; the piers of the Ponte alla Carraia and the Palazzo del Bargello in Florence; the tomb of Federico II in Palermo, etc.), differing in date and style. In all likelihood, this is an imaginary personality, resulting from Vasari’s confusion.
BIBL.: G. Vasari, Vite, ed. G. Milanesi, I, Florence 1906, p. 279 ff.
Emma Zocca