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Marrying off the maidens

The fresco described depicts life inside a hospital, in particular the section that cared for children and women. The scene is symbolically divided by a basin and by arches that separate two spaces: on the left, a courtyard showing the activity of wet nurses, women, nuns, and attendants, engaged in various tasks related to the care of children, while a teacher leads some students, including a little girl. The scene also includes biblical references and shows everyday activities such as washing the children and education. On the right, in a chapel a wedding is celebrated; the rector, acting as witness, holds the bride's dowry. The conclusion of the rite is accompanied by the music of young women. In general, the fresco illustrates the organization of the hospital and the statutory rules that governed its activities. With echoes of the sermons of Saint Bernardino.