Description
The painting Portrait of Cardinal Reginald Pole by artist Sebastiano Del Piombo is an Italian Renaissance masterpiece housed in the National Gallery in London. This oil painting on canvas measures 112 x 95 cm and was created in 1542.
Sebastiano Del Piombo's artistic style is a mixture of the Venetian tradition and the influence of Michelangelo. In this work, we can clearly see his ability to create a realistic and detailed figure, using a soft brushwork technique and a focus on rendering texture and light.
The composition of the painting is very interesting, as Cardinal Pole is sitting on a chair against a dark background, which gives it an air of mystery and solemnity. The artist has managed to capture the personality of the cardinal, with his serious expression and penetrating gaze.
Color is another outstanding aspect of this work. Sebastiano Del Piombo has used a palette of dark and earthy tones, which give the painting an air of sobriety and solemnity. However, there are also some touches of color in the cardinal's clothing and in the background, which give the work a bit of life and movement.
The history of the painting is also fascinating. Cardinal Reginald Pole was a major religious and political leader in 16th century England, and this painting was commissioned by himself as an official portrait. However, the work was never delivered during the cardinal's lifetime, and is believed to have been acquired by the Duke of Buckingham in the 18th century.
As for little-known aspects, Sebastiano Del Piombo is said to have used an unusual technique to create the texture of the cardinal's clothing. Instead of painting directly onto the canvas, the artist applied a layer of plaster and then painted over it, giving the painting a unique and long-lasting texture.
In summary, the painting Portrait of Cardinal Reginald Pole by Sebastiano Del Piombo is a masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance that combines the technical skill of the artist with the personality of the cardinal portrayed. Its composition, color and technique make this painting a unique and interesting piece for any art lover.