Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

This guide to the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella in Florence tells the rivalry behind the crucifix hanging in the chapel ahead: architect Filippo Brunelleschi, unimpressed by a wooden Christ his friend Donatello carved for Santa Croce, calling it a peasant on the cross. It follows Donatello's dare that Brunelleschi could do better, and the pearwood figure Brunelleschi built in response, its proportions set on strict mathematical rules, the arms spanning exactly the height of the body. Stand close to the chapel rail for the best view of the carving's fine detail.