European Painting before 1900, Johnson Collection Portrait of Cardinal Filippo Archinto 1558 Titian (Tiziano Vecellio), Italian (active Venice), first securely documented 1508, died 1576 Oil on canvas * Gallery 252, European Art 1500-1850, second floor (ARCO Chemical Company Gallery) Cat. 204 John G. Johnson Collection, 1917 |
LabelThe unusual portrayal of this man can be explained by facts known about his life. Archinto was appointed archbishop of Milan in 1556, but political troubles prevented his taking possession of the post. The veil obscuring him from view stands for these difficulties. The episcopal ring, which the artist carefully reveals just outside the veil, symbolizes Archinto's legal right to office.* Works in the collection are moved off view for many different reasons. Although gallery locations on the website are updated regularly, there is no guarantee that this object will be on display on the day of your visit. |
