The Duomo, Milan – The Bronze Door Works of Art
- Max Kerly
- Feb 9
- 2 min read
When approaching the Duomo di Milano, amid the sheer grandeur of the cathedral itself, you are confronted with an artistic masterpiece set into its very façade: the monumental bronze doors. These doors are far more than functional entrances. They are works of storytelling, skill, and creative vision, documenting centuries of religious devotion, cultural identity, and artistic ambition. Through their sculpted panels, the bronze doors of Milan Cathedral narrate biblical events and Milanese history with remarkable depth and precision.
There are five bronze doors to the Cathedral. Among them, the Porta Centrale, or central door, stands as the most significant and visually commanding.
Interpreting the Ascension of Jesus Through Drawing
As an artist specialising in detailed architectural artwork, I was drawn to the intricacy of the Duomo’s bronze doors and the challenge to recreate a section in my own style. My drawing focusing on the Ascension of Jesus section, studying the relief’s depth, composition, and symbolic movement.
This artwork took five months to complete, guided by the principles that define my practice: passion, patience, and commitment. Every line was considered to reflect not only the physical structure of the bronze relief but also the emotional and spiritual weight carried within the scene- hence the long time spent...and it is a tricky drawing.
The original drawing has now been sold. However, limited edition prints are available for purchase via my website:
Future Work – Joy and Sorrow of the Virgin Mary
I am currently considering producing a second drawing based on the Joy and Sorrow of the Virgin Mary panels of the Porta Centrale. For me, I have drawn the left hand side of the gates and feel it would only be right to balance it out and draw the right. Due to the details and again the challenge, it also appeals to me hugely.
Would you like to see a second Bronze Door drawing?
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A Bit of History on The Bronze Doors of Milan Cathedral
The five bronze doors of the Duomo di Milano were created between 1896 and 1965 by several leading Italian sculptors. Together, they present a powerful visual narrative of biblical stories and Milan’s religious history, rendered in richly detailed bronze.
Each door carries a distinct theme:
Porta Centrale – The Joy and Sorrow of the Virgin Mary
Northwest Door – The life of Saint Ambrose
Northeast Door – The sacraments of the Church
Southwest Door – The history of Milan
Southeast Door – The struggles of Milanese Christians
Porta Centrale – A Masterpiece of Bronze Sculpture
Completed in 1906, the Porta Centrale was designed by Ludovico Pogliaghi, adapting a neo-Gothic façade design by Brentano to the existing architectural structure. The result is a refined blend of Gothic form and sculptural depth.
The bronze panels depict the Joy and Sorrow of the Virgin Mary, with scenes of suffering shown on the left wing and moments of joy on the right. The surrounding frame, decorated with angels and floral motifs, enhances the narrative while highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship of the work.
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