The wooden painted ceiling of the Sala Magna of the Palazzo Chiaromonte-Steri in Palermo

What is it about?

The wooden painted ceiling of the Sala Magna of the Palazzo Chiaromonte-Steri in Palermo is an outstanding monument for its structure as well as for its articulated visual program. In the present study, I aim to analyse three specially debated aspects of it. Firstly, I will question the appropriateness of using the Spanish term Mudéjar for describing its structure and decoration. Secondly, I will show existing analogies between Norman ceilings in Sicily and the one of the Sala Magna in Palermo. Finally, I will explore the political meaning of the masterpiece following the clues of some inscriptions on the ceiling.

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