Pietro Perugino (c. 1448–1523), Follower of - Portrait de Francesco delle Opere

Follower of Pietro Perugino (c. 1448–1523)
Portrait of Francesco delle Opere, after Perugino

Oil on panel. 19th century or earlier.

Interesting painting of Italian school, made by a follower of Pietro Vannucci, called Perugino, reproducing the famous Portrait of Francesco delle Opere painted by the master in 1494, now housed in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. The original is documented as a panel painting of approximately 52 × 44 cm.

The composition reproduces with notable fidelity the image conceived by Perugino: a young man depicted bust-length and almost facing forward, with wavy hair, a black cap and dark clothing open over a reddish garment, set against a delicate landscape with an elevated horizon.

Especially characteristic is the relationship between the figure and the landscape. Behind the portrait is developed an extensive panorama of hills, vegetation and bluish distant horizons, built by successive atmospheric planes. This arrangement derives directly from Perugino’s Renaissance sensibility and his interest in integrating the human figure within serene and idealized landscapes.

The face constitutes the absolute center of the composition. The frontal and restrained gaze, the regularity of the features and the soft modeling of the flesh convey that serenity and idealization characteristic of Umbrian painting of the Renaissance. The meticulousness of the original portrait and its arrangement against a landscape have also been linked to models of Flemish painting.

The original work represents Francesco delle Opere, related to Giovanni delle Corniole, a renowned gem-cutting master. The painting in the Uffizi is signed and dated on its reverse 1494 and comes from the collection of Cardinal Leopoldo de’ Medici; it entered the Uffizi in the 19th century.

The present version should be understood as a follower’s work, executed later based on the well-known Perugino model. It preserves the essential elements of the Renaissance composition, although it presents its own execution and differences from the original. It is especially interesting as evidence of the long-lasting fortune of Italian Renaissance models among painters and copyists of later periods.

Due to its material and stylistic characteristics, the work can prudently be placed in the 19th century or earlier, without a more precise dating being advisable based solely on the photograph. Direct examination of the panel, especially its reverse, edges, preparation and mounting system, could provide additional information to determine its age.

Condition Report

The painting shows craquelure and various signs of age, noticeable on the surface. Its condition should be carefully assessed using the photographs provided, which are an integral part of the description.

The work is presented in a significant black frame with moldings and gilded elements, clearly inspired by historicism.

IMPORTANT ABOUT THE FRAME

The frame appearing in the photographs is supplied exclusively as a GIFT with the work. The frame is not part of the lot for valuation purposes, has no commercial value attributed and is included only as a courtesy to the buyer.

Therefore, any possible damage, breakage, loss of molding or damage suffered by the frame during transport cannot be grounds for a claim or affect the valuation of the acquired work.

The work will be carefully packed in a professional manner, using suitable materials to provide maximum protection during transport.

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