Portrait of Simonetta Vespucci By Piero di Cosimo (1490)
This portrait shows a lot of the typical features of a portrait painting from the 15th century, which are the use of the profile with intricate jewels and riches. This also has a linear perspective evident by the decreasing size of the trees in the distance. The strange thing about this painting is the very revealing manner in which this noblewoman is being portrayed. Simonetta Vespucci was said to be one of the greatest beauties in Italy at the time and very wealthy. I find it surprising for her to be so exposed. Also, the snake around her neck is very peculiar, and am not quite sure what that is supposed to signify. The warm colors used to depicted her I really like in contrast with the dark black snake around her neck and the cool colors of the sky behind her.
Yes i agree it does seem a little strange for her to be exposed in that way. But she doesnt seem to be bothered by it at all, she still looks happy and mellow.
ReplyDeleteThe snake often symbolized eternity or immortality at this time. But many scholars believe that this snake refers to Simone's death due to tuberculosis at age 23. The red storm cloud in the distance also alludes to her tragic death.
ReplyDeleteOne thing that I do remember from this time period is that if the women were covering themselves up and trying to not be exposed, it was as if they were trying to get themselves noticed. But here, she does not seem to be bothered by the fact that she is beautiful, even if she is half-clothed. And if she is also wearing the snake, then I believe that she may have had some sort of religious background and believed that after death, one is immortal somehow. Her eyes and face seem calm and welcoming, whereas many of the other portraits we see, the faces are cold or slightly off.
ReplyDeleteIt is rumored that Simonetta Vespucci was Giuliano de' Medici's mistress also to me it seems like the black clouds are kind of foreshadowing of dark times to come, but the look on her face dosen't look scared. She looks like she is at peace with her death. Honestly, if I knew I was going to die at age 23 I would be slightly pissed
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