The Hermetic Staircases by Buontalenti for the Florentine Sant’Egidio and Santa Trinita Churches: Digital Analyses

Two mannerist staircases by the architect Bernardo Buontalenti have unusual characteristics and are difficult to decipher: the staircase leading to the presbytery in Santa Trinita church (1574) and a similar one in Sant’Egidio church (after 1575). Balancing between architecture and sculpture, they have been little studied to date due to their peculiar three-dimensional form, which is almost impossible to define through orthogonal projection drawing. The digital survey of these structures allows us to reconstruct them in their full three-dimensionality, integrating various digital documentation techniques, from laser scanning to digital photogrammetry. The data obtained allows us to investigate the complex geometries of these architectures in detail. Their study leads to a perspective not found in criticism of Mannerist architecture, linked to a philosophical-religious concept (Neoplatonic Kabbalah), which was also widespread in the scientific thinking of the time. The figurative reference to natural elements informed by esoteric numerology, which can be deduced in the forms of the staircases, creates total harmony with the interest in nature of the patron, Grand Duke Francesco Medici.