4 elements - Fire by Giuseppe Arcimboldo

This flamboyant work fits masterfully into the prestigious imperial collections dedicated to the fundamental elements of the infinite cosmos. Produced by the incomparable Mannerist painter official of the imperial court Arcimboldo Giuseppe, this singular creation entitled “4 elements - Fire” proposes a striking visual metaphor. It strongly expresses the destructive and civilizing power of the flame through a complex assemblage of manufactured objects and typical incandescent materials.

Oriented to the left, a profile bust emerges from a totally dark, gloomy and opaque background space. The hair is composed of superimposed wooden logs from which burst bright, orange and luminous sprays of flames. The forehead and cheek are formed by a rough flint, while a metallic fire-steel draws the ear. The nose and mouth are cleverly figured by spent wicks and candles. The base of the bust gathers massive bronze cannons, ancient pistols and the gold chain of the Order of the Golden Fleece. The dramatic lighting comes from the composition itself, creating intense shadows.

The rendering of metallic reflections on the weapons and the moving glow of the fire highlight the technical mastery of the painter. The subtle use of oil painting restores the contrasted textures of charred wood and carefully chiseled gold. The final realism is absolutely fascinating.