Bonifacio Bembo (Brescia, 1420 – Milan, 1480)

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Oil on panel

(each) 43 x 43 cm.

Framed 55 x 55 cm.

This splendid pair of ‘ceiling panels’ in painted wood represents a classic element of Renaissance furnishings and decoration in residences between the 15th and 16th centuries, particularly in Northern Italy: works of this kind were originally set into the coffered ceilings of noble palaces, which were widespread in the Lombardy region (particularly around Cremona, Bergamo and Brescia) and were mounted at an angle between the beams so they could be admired from below looking upwards (see example images).

Fortunately, there are still many historic residences that preserve these spectacular artefacts intact, although many of them, following sales and renovations, have been dismantled and sold separately on the antiques market.

Produced by specialist workshops, these small paintings typically featured depictions of ladies, knights, saints and illustrious men, recounting the history and the cultural and political ideals of the house’s owners, who were often portrayed amongst the figures.

As for our two panels, given their quality and distinctive craftsmanship, we are inclined to recognise the stylistic hand of Bonifacio Bembo (Brescia, 1420 – Milan, 1480), and they should therefore be attributed to one of his direct followers.

A highly significant Italian painter and illuminator of the fifteenth century, active primarily at the court of the Dukes of Milan (the Visconti and the Sforza), Bembo was the foremost specialist in this field, so much so that his prolific workshop – and, naturally, his followers – continued this tradition, producing a large number of these panels for noble residences.

By comparing the style and manner of our two figures, as well as the architectural setting in which they are placed, one can note the similarity to many of Bembo’s works, preserved in various collections: for example, they show strong similarities with the series of profile portraits held at the Castello Sforzesco in Milan and at the Poldi Pezzoli Museum, commissioned by the Dukes of Milan.

Let us now examine the characteristics of the works: in the first panel we see the portrait of a high-ranking gentleman, depicted in profile, in the classical Renaissance style inspired by ancient Roman coins, with a pose that conveys nobility and a sense of firmness. The man has strong features, with a slightly aquiline nose and pursed lips that convey severity and a proud expression, typical of 15th-century rulers.

The second panel, on the other hand, depicts a splendid image of Saint Sebastian, portrayed as a young man with gentle features and long, wavy hair, yet enveloped in bright red flames to evoke the fervour of his faith. He wears a light-coloured robe and holds an arrow in his hand – the symbol of his martyrdom – in keeping with Renaissance fashion, which favoured depicting the saint elegantly dressed, clutching an arrow between his fingers in an almost symbolic manner, rather than naked and pierced by dozens of arrows.

The setting enhances the work, with the figures set within a rich architectural frame painted with a round arch supported by classical columns on either side, from which hangs a garland of flowers and fruit (perhaps pomegranates), a classical decorative element much loved during the Renaissance to symbolise the prosperity and good fortune of the family.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The works are sold accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic sheet.

We arrange and organise the transport of purchased works, both within Italy and abroad, using professional and insured carriers.

Please contact us for any further information; we will be delighted to assist you. It is also possible to view the painting at our gallery in Riva del Garda; we would be delighted to welcome you and show you our collection of artworks.

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