BACCHIACCA
(b. 1494, Firenze, d. 1557, Firenze)

Baptism of Christ

1523-24
Oil on poplar panel, 58 x 41 cm
Private collection

This representation of Baptism is a fine example from Bacchiacca's early maturity. Though still influenced at this time by Perugino, his master, this painting demonstrates the increasing individuality of the young Florentine, particularly in its use of colour which lends the overall effect a freshness that to the contemporary spectator must have seemed overtly modern.