Portrait of Cardinal Ricci
Scipione Pulzone, called Il Gaetano
"Portrait of Cardinal Ricci," created by Scipione Pulzone, also known as Il Gaetano, is a significant work from the late 16th century that exemplifies the artist's mastery in portraiture and his ability to convey the dignity of his subjects. Commissioned to depict Cardinal Federico Ricci, the painting reflects the cultural and religious context of the Counter-Reformation, highlighting the importance of ecclesiastical figures in the art of the period.
"Portrait of Cardinal Ricci" by Scipione Pulzone, known as Il Gaetano, features a meticulously rendered depiction of the cardinal, characterized by his rich, ornate vestments that reflect the ecclesiastical hierarchy of the period. The composition is marked by a striking use of chiaroscuro, which enhances the three-dimensionality of the figure and draws attention to the cardinal's contemplative expression and the intricate details of his attire.