Vertumnus - Rudolf II by Giuseppe Arcimboldo

This superb pictorial composition represents the peak of Mannerist art within the famous European imperial courts of the era. Conceived by the talented Italian master Arcimboldo Giuseppe, the canvas named “Vertumnus - Rudolf II” embodies a complex political and natural allegory. The work magnificently celebrates universal harmony through the composite portrait of a deified sovereign, reflecting the erudite, curious and eccentric spirit of his very particular historical time.

A male bust seen from the front stands out clearly against a deep, uniform and mysterious black background. The entire face is made up of an incredible profusion of fresh fruits and spring and autumn vegetables. Plump peaches form the chubby cheeks, a voluminous pear faithfully draws the aquiline nose, while ripe cherries model the plump lips. Both dark eyebrows are made of golden wheat ears and bumpy pea pods. The robust torso is composed of an immense greenish gourd surrounded by a multicolored floral garland with very delicate splendid petals. A soft light illuminates this extraordinary plant anatomy, accentuating the realism of each botanical element.

The artist demonstrates a prodigious craftsmanship in the harmonious arrangement of these countless plant varieties. His rigorous technique in oil allows him to accurately restore the velvety texture of the fruits and the fragility of fresh flowers. It is an absolute triumph of classical and achieved pictorial realism.