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Why was Duccio fined by the commune of Siena in 1280?
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Duccio
The Virgin Enthroned with the Child, Surrounded by the Patrons of Siena, Angels, and Saints, central panel of the Maestà, tempera on wood panel by Duccio, 1308–11; in the Siena Opera della Metropolitana, Italy.
In 1280, the commune of Siena fined the painter Duccio the significant sum of 100 lire for an act of misconduct that remains unrecorded in historical documents.1
This penalty was the first of many fines the artist incurred throughout his career, which historians often interpret as evidence of a restless and rebellious temperament. Other documented infractions by Duccio included the nonpayment of debts, a refusal to pledge allegiance to the head of the popolo party, failure to appear for military duty, and an instance in 1302 involving the suspected practice of sorcery.1