Giambologna: Court Sculptor to Ferdinando I

Documents reveal that Giambologna, the renowned sculptor at the Medici court, created six large garden sculptures for King Henri IV of France. Three of these bronzes, including a previously unknown Venus, have been identified. This book explores the garden project, discusses the bronzes, and sheds light on the diplomatic relations between France and Tuscany during the 16th century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2019
Publisher: Ad Ilissum

Recently unearthed documents reveal that Giambologna, the renowned sculptor at the court of the Medici, crafted six magnificent garden sculptures for King Henri IV of France, previously unknown to the world. This captivating book delves into the details of the garden project and explores three bronzes that have been identified as part of this endeavor, with special emphasis on a hitherto unknown Venus.

Ferdinando I de Medici, Grand Duke of Florence, strengthened his alliance with the French crown through a series of diplomatic gestures, including the creation of new gardens at St-German-en-Laye meticulously designed by the engineer and designer Tommaso Francini. These gardens were envisioned as a magnificent backdrop for the wedding celebrations of Maria, Ferdinando's daughter, with Henri IV in 1600, which were considered the most extravagant and remarkable wedding festivities ever witnessed in Europe.

Blanca Troyols provides a comprehensive account of Henri IV's breathtaking gardens, showcasing the latest Mannerist style characterized by the use of various materials such as stone, shell, and crystal, along with rare and exotic plants. Francini's expertise in extravagant water features is also highlighted, along with an array of statues that adorned the gardens. Troyols contextualizes this important garden within the broader political landscape of France and Tuscany, shedding light on the intricate diplomatic maneuvers between the respective larger and poorer states.

In his examination, Alexander Rudigier delves into the surviving works by Giambologna associated with the gardens. Among these, he uncovers a previously unknown Venus, currently held in a private collection, which has sparked considerable controversy. Rudigier compares this Venus to other notable Giambologna sculptures, including the Mercury in the Louvre and the Triton in the Metropolitan Museum in New York, both originally commissioned for the gardens. He further explores the influence of Giambologna's pupil, Hans Reichle, on his artistic journey.

Through meticulous research and analysis, Rudigier demonstrates that Hans Reichle played a significant role in Giambologna's artistic development. He sheds light on Reichle's training and contributions to Giambologna's work, highlighting his role as a major influence. This insightful study provides a deeper understanding of Giambologna's artistic legacy and the profound impact he had on the world of sculpture.

Weight: 2882g
Dimension: 248 x 317 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912168149