View of the Vaulting of the Sacristy of St. John

Luca Signorelli decorated the vaulting of this sacristy with figures displaying his renowned mastery of the human form in dynamic poses. The Renaissance master was famous for his anatomical knowledge, which Michelangelo studied and admired. Muscular figures twist and turn across the ceiling.

Signorelli's frescoes at Orvieto Cathedral would later inspire Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling. His work at Loreto demonstrates the same powerful physicality. These frescoes remain in situ at the Basilica della Santa Casa in Loreto.