Benedetto Falconcini, Bishop of Arezzo

Artist Pier Leone Ghezzi (Italian, 1674–1755)

Date1702–1706

Mediumoil on canvas

Dimensionscanvas: 129.5 x 99.1 cm (51 x 39 in.)

ClassificationsPaintings

Credit LineTheodore T. and Mary G. Ellis Fund

Terms

Object number1978.98

Label TextThis portrait was commissioned to commemorate Falconcini’s election as the Bishop of Arezzo in 1704. Ghezzi’s use of strong lighting from the left both illuminates and darkens the Bishop’s face, creating a dramatic and expressive presence. This lighting also highlights the loose handling of the paint in the Bishop’s white garment. The curtain pulled to the side in the background, reveals personal items arranged to the right of the Bishop, suggesting a glimpse into his private life. Ghezzi’s talent for caricature allowed him to capture the true personality of the sitter, which resulted in both an intimate and direct likeness in this painting. Ghezzi was the first painter to Pope Clement XI, and completed portraits of many high clergymen; however, very few of these portraits still exist. ProvenanceP & D Colnaghi & Co. Ltd., London England

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