Artwork

În fața palatului (Plecarea lui Tobias)

În fața palatului (Plecarea lui Tobias), by Sebastiano Ricci, 1743
În fața palatului (Plecarea lui Tobias), by Sebastiano Ricci, 1743

În fața palatului (Plecarea lui Tobias) is a print by Sebastiano Ricci. It dates from 1743 and is held in the collection of the Brukenthal National Museum.

About this work

Overview

În fața palatului (Plecarea lui Tobias) is a 1743 artwork by Sebastiano Ricci, depicting a scene of contrasting light and activity in front of a grand palatial structure.

Subject & Meaning

The artwork captures a moment of transition, with figures in formal attire (dark robes and bright red coats) on the steps, alongside a departing horse-drawn carriage, suggesting a significant arrival or departure, potentially alluding to the biblical story of Tobias's departure.

Technique & Style

Ricci employs chiaroscuro, characterized by strong contrasts between light and dark, with warm, golden light illuminating the building's edges, while the figures below remain in shadow, creating a sense of depth and drama.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1743 by Sebastiano Ricci, the work's specific commission context or original ownership is not detailed in available information.

Context

The blend of daily life with formal ceremony reflects 18th-century European artistic interests in capturing nuanced social moments within grand settings.

Legacy

While not widely recognized as a seminal work, it exemplifies Ricci's use of chiaroscuro and his contribution to the visual storytelling of transitional moments in Baroque and Rococo art.

Artist & collection