Bust of a Man (Saint Matthias?)

Giovanni Battista Piazzetta

Created:
Movement:
1720
Rococo
key Notes:
Chiaroscuro contrast, Expressive realism
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
17 1/2 × 14 3/4 in. (44.5 × 37.5 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

We have not been able to find much information about this work, or we believe the information we sourced needed more review.

Bust of a Man (Saint Matthias?) by Giovanni Battista Piazzetta

The painting "Bust of a Man (Saint Matthias?)" was created by Giovanni Battista Piazzetta in 1720, utilizing oil on canvas. Piazzetta, an Italian Rococo artist, was renowned for his dramatic use of chiaroscuro, a technique evident in this work, which enhances the emotional intensity and depth of the subject. The painting is often noted for its expressive portrayal and the ambiguity surrounding the identity of the figure, possibly Saint Matthias, which invites contemplation and scholarly debate. Piazzetta's influence extended beyond painting; he was a pivotal figure in Venetian art, contributing to the development of the Rococo style in Italy. His works are characterized by their dynamic compositions and the emotive power of his figures, which have left a lasting impact on the art world. This painting exemplifies Piazzetta's mastery in capturing human emotion and his skillful manipulation of light and shadow.

Description of the work:

Bust of a Man (Saint Matthias?) by Giovanni Battista Piazzetta

Created in 1720, "Bust of a Man (Saint Matthias?)" by Giovanni Battista Piazzetta is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the dramatic chiaroscuro and emotional intensity characteristic of the Baroque period. The artwork, believed to depict Saint Matthias, showcases Piazzetta's skill in rendering expressive facial features and the play of light and shadow.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Bust of a Man (Saint Matthias?)