Pontormo, Ritratto di Cosimo il Vecchio
Are you familiar with the works of Pontormo, one of the most emblematic figures of Mannerism? Here I invite you to discover some of Jacopo Pontormo’s most important works, which have marked the history of art with a unique style and great expressive intensity.
Pontormo’s works to know and admire
Pontormo, leda e il Cigno
1. PORTRAIT OF COSIMO THE ELDER
This work, housed in the Uffizi in Florence, is an emblematic example of Pontormo’s mastery of portraiture.
The depiction of Cosimo il Vecchio reveals the artist’s skill in capturing not only the physical aspect, but also the character and ultimately the intimate essence of the subject portrayed.
2. LEDA AND THE SWAN
In this representation of a classical myth, Pontormo shows the influence of Leonardo da Vinci’s works, with an innovative approach to composition and the use of colour. The work is a brilliant example of his ability to reinterpret traditional themes in a modern key.
Pontormo, Cena in Emmaus
3. THE EMMAUS DINNER
This biblical scene is remarkable for its vividness and realism. Pontormo manages to convey a sense of immediacy, almost as if he were capturing a moment from real life. A revolutionary approach for his time!
Pontormo, Affreschi di Poggio a Caiano (dettaglio)
4. THE FRESCOES OF POGGIO A CAIANO
This cycle of frescoes, begun by Andrea del Sarto and completed by Pontormo and later by Alessandro Allori, is an extraordinary example of the evolution of 16th century Florentine art. Also in this work, the particularly intense facial expressions highlight Pontormo’s tendency to provide emotionality to the protagonists of his masterpieces.
Pontormo, Visitazione (dettaglio)
5. VISITING
Created during a period of great isolation caused by the plague, Pontormo’s Visitation represents a turning point in the artist’s artistic history. The use of dark colours and composition make the work extraordinarily expressive and make it one of his most moving creations.
6. THE DEPOSITION
Another extraordinary work by Pontormo is the Deposition, located in the Capponi Chapel of Santa Felicita in Florence. This is considered the masterpiece of Mannerism because of the expressive intensity of the figures and the fact that Pontormo does not use a defined focal point, forcing the observer’s eye to move its attention everywhere. A technique that breaks with tradition and gives the painting a new dynamism.
Pontormo, Deposizione (dettaglio)
Pontormo’s works represent a milestone in the history of art. His ability to innovate, combined with his emotional depth and technical mastery, makes him one of the most influential artists of Mannerism.
His works continue to fascinate and inspire, offering a unique window on art in the 16th century.