Portrait of an Ecclesiastic, late 1550s
Giovanni Battista Moroniexpand_more
Oil on canvasexpand_more
The William Hood Dunwoody Fundexpand_more 16.22
Not on Viewexpand_more
This Renaissance portrait is exceptional for its psychological force. In the mid-1500s, Giovanni Battista Moroni was northern Italy’s leading portraitist, admired for the intense naturalism and remarkable immediacy of his work. A clever illusion here is the book projecting over the marble ledge, as if into the viewer’s space. The unidentified sitter’s biretta (square cap), book, and black garment, and also the austere setting, indicate he belongs to the clergy, an important class of clientele for the artist.
The painting is in superb condition. Even the dark pigments, which often fade over time, are well preserved—evident in the details of the man’s black cloak and hat.
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Details
- Title
- Portrait of an Ecclesiastic
- Artist Life
- Italian (Bergamo), 1520/24–1578
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 16.22
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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