TIEPOLO, Giovanni Battista
(b. 1696, Venezia, d. 1770, Madrid)

The Apotheosis of the Pisani Family

1761-62
Fresco, 2350 x 1350 cm
Villa Pisani, Stra

The ceiling fresco is conceived as a trompe-l'oeil opening onto a silvery-blue sky, whose endless depths are defined by various towering cloud formations. The composition consists of two sections which exist independently of one another: the portrayal of the Pisani family and various allegorical figures in the lower portion, and the Continents in the upper portion. The figure of Fame, sounding her trumpets in either direction, connects the two. Below her, Divine Wisdom is enthroned and reigns over a harmonious empire. The Virtues Faith, Justice, Love, Hope and Strength appear at her feet.




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