Head of a Bishop
Gaetano Gandolfi
ca. 1770 · Oil on canvas · European Paintings
In addition to altarpieces, ceiling decorations, and canvases with mythological subjects, Gandolfi painted bust-length images of men and women from various walks of life. Unlike formal portraits for paying clients, these character studies allowed the artist to explore diverse emotions, expressions, and facial types. This example’s exceptionally pristine condition preserves Gandolfi’s lively brushwork, which is particularly evident in the bishop’s beard and collar.
- Artist
- Gaetano Gandolfi
- Date
- ca. 1770
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
- Department
- European Paintings
- Credit line
- Purchase, Charles and Jessie Price and Stephen Mazoh Gifts, 2010
