Gian Lodovico Madruzzo

Giovanni Battista Moroni

Created:
Movement:
1551/52
Mannerism
key Notes:
Renaissance Portraiture, Noble Attire
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Dimensions:
199.8 × 116 cm (78 5/8 × 45 5/8 in.); Framed: 237.5 × 152.4 × 7.6 cm (93 1/2 × 60 × 3 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Gian Lodovico Madruzzo" is a portrait painted by Giovanni Battista Moroni, an Italian artist known for his realistic and detailed depictions of his subjects. The painting features Gian Lodovico Madruzzo, who was a prominent figure in the ecclesiastical and political landscape of the 16th century, serving as the Bishop of Trento. Moroni's work is characterized by its psychological depth and meticulous attention to texture and fabric, which is evident in the portrayal of Madruzzo's attire. The painting exemplifies the Northern Italian portrait tradition, emphasizing the individuality and status of the sitter. The exact date of creation remains uncertain, but it is generally placed within the mid-1560s, a period when Moroni was at the height of his artistic career. The work is significant for its contribution to the genre of portraiture and its reflection of the socio-political context of the time. It is currently housed in a public collection, where it continues to be studied for its artistic and historical relevance.

Description of the work:

"Gian Lodovico Madruzzo" by Giovanni Battista Moroni is a portrait that exemplifies the artist's mastery in capturing the psychological depth and individuality of his subjects. The painting features a three-quarter view of Madruzzo, who is depicted wearing a dark, richly textured garment that conveys both status and solemnity. The use of chiaroscuro enhances the dimensionality of the figure, creating a striking contrast between light and shadow. Moroni's attention to detail is evident in the meticulous rendering of the subject's facial features, particularly the expressive eyes and the subtle variations in skin tone. The background is rendered in a muted palette, allowing the figure to emerge prominently from the canvas. The composition is balanced and harmonious, with the subject's posture conveying a sense of dignity and authority. The overall effect is one of gravitas, reflecting the importance of Madruzzo as a historical figure.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Gian Lodovico Madruzzo