The Legend of the Infant Servius Tullius

Bonifacio de' Pitati (Bonifacio Veronese)

Created:
Movement:
1553
Mannerism
key Notes:
Mythological Narrative, Renaissance Composition
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Dimensions:
10 1/2 x 40 1/4 in. (26.7 x 102.2 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"The Legend of the Infant Servius Tullius" is a painting attributed to Bonifacio de' Pitati, also known as Bonifacio Veronese, an Italian Renaissance artist active in the 16th century. The work depicts the legendary story of Servius Tullius, a king of ancient Rome, who was said to have been born a slave and later became a ruler. The painting is characterized by its dynamic composition and vivid color palette, typical of Veronese's style. The exact date of creation is unknown, as is the current location of the painting. Bonifacio Veronese was influenced by the Venetian school and is known for his historical and religious subjects. The narrative of Servius Tullius reflects themes of destiny and social mobility, common in Renaissance art. The painting is significant for its representation of classical mythology and its connection to Roman history. Further details about the painting's provenance and exhibition history remain undocumented.

Description of the work:

"The Legend of the Infant Servius Tullius" by Bonifacio de' Pitati, also known as Bonifacio Veronese, is an oil on canvas painting characterized by its dynamic composition and rich color palette. The artwork depicts the legendary story of Servius Tullius, the sixth king of Rome, emphasizing themes of divine intervention and royal destiny. The figures are rendered with a sense of movement, showcasing expressive gestures and intricate details in their clothing. The use of light and shadow creates depth, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the figures. The background features a landscape that contributes to the narrative context, while the overall arrangement draws the viewer's eye toward the central action. The painting exemplifies the artist's skill in blending historical subject matter with a vibrant, theatrical style. The date of creation remains unknown.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Legend of the Infant Servius Tullius