Company of the Madonna under the Vaults of the Hospital and the Society of Executors of Pious Dispositions

The Confraternity of the Disciplinati di Maria Santissima, later known as the Società di Esecutori di Pie Disposizioni, is the oldest lay brotherhood housed in the underground areas of Santa Maria della Scala. Originally founded in Siena Cathedral, the confraternity is mentioned in a letter by Saint Catherine of Siena, who recognized its dedication to charitable works. On April 14, 1785, a Grand Ducal decree suppressed the confraternity’s religious functions, reforming it as a secular society focused on charitable activities. In 1792, Grand Duke Ferdinand III of Tuscany officially restored its status as a religious confraternity. The confraternity’s artistic heritage includes numerous furnishings and artworks, many of which were donated by artists who benefited from scholarships awarded by the institution. Most of this collection is currently housed at the confraternity’s headquarters on Via Roma, where numerous Sienese paintings and furnishings are on display. At Santa Maria della Scala, key works include a striking wooden crucifix, flanked by terracotta figures of Saint Bernardino and Saint Catherine. Tradition holds that this crucifix inspired Saint Bernardino to wear the Franciscan habit. Another notable artwork is a painting by Alessandro Casolani, depicting the Madonna and Child with Saints Peter and Paul, located on the oratory’s altar. The sacristy contains important frescoes attributed to Andrea Vanni and Luca di Tommè. During late 20th-century restoration work, a large early 14th-century fresco cycle depicting hermit monks, known as the Tebaide, was uncovered along the staircase leading to the confraternity. This work is likely by the Sienese painter Lippo Vanni. The confraternity also preserves a significant collection of student artworks from the 19th century, known as the Alunnato Biringucci. These pieces, created by artists who received scholarships from the confraternity, provide valuable insight into the artistic traditions of Siena during that period.