Titian, the Della Rovere Dynasty, and His Portrait of Guidobaldo II

Gives the first comprehensive examination of the painting's provenance, and reception throughout history.

The Klesch portrait by Titian of Guidobaldo II with his son Francesco Maria is a rare and remarkable depiction of the duke of Urbino in his full power as supreme commander of papal troops. The painting, which has only recently been attributed to Titian after extensive analysis and restoration, showcases the artist's exceptional skill and mastery. The portrait, which features Guidobaldo II and his heir next to him, is a full-length double portrait and is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance art.

Titian was known for his portraits of some of the most influential figures in Europe, including Charles V and Philip II of Spain. The Klesch portrait, however, was initially dismissed as a workshop product, partly due to its poor condition and partly because it was believed that Titian would not have created one for Guidobaldo, whose father Guidobaldo della Rovere and family had a long history of patronizing the artist.

Recent research, however, has revealed that Guidobaldo was not peripheral but central to Italian politics and was regarded at several points in history as a key figure who could bring peace or influence major conflicts on the Italian peninsula. Guidobaldo was supreme commander of Venice, the Papal States, and then Spain, and he sent thousands of soldiers to the major conflicts of his day, particularly the defense of Malta (1565) and the Battle of Lepanto (1571). His engineers were sought throughout Europe for their ingenuity.

In this volume, Ian Verstegen delves into new research that sheds light on Guidobaldo's geopolitical significance. He argues that Guidobaldo was not peripheral but central to Italian politics and was regarded at several points in history as a key figure who could bring peace or influence major conflicts on the Italian peninsula, particularly the War of Siena and Pope Paul IV's offensive war against Spain. Anne-Marie Eze also provides a comprehensive examination of the painting's provenance, outlining its vicissitudes and the various owners it has had over the centuries.

The Klesch portrait is a testament to Titian's exceptional talent and the power of his art to capture the essence of his subjects. It is a rare and valuable piece of Renaissance art that continues to inspire and intrigue scholars and art enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 730g
Dimension: 222 x 267 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913645090