Artwork

Fortitudo und Prudentia

Fortitudo und Prudentia, by Sebastiano Conca, unspecified, 1722
Fortitudo und Prudentia, by Sebastiano Conca, unspecified, 1722

Fortitudo und Prudentia is an unspecified painting by the Rococo painting artist Sebastiano Conca. It dates from 1722 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.

About this work

Overview

Sebastiano Conca’s 1722 oil painting, titled Fortitudo und Prudentia, is part of the collection of the Alte Pinakothek in Munich. The work presents two allegorical female figures seated on a throne, surrounded by symbolic objects and a small cherubic figure, all rendered against a darkened backdrop.

Subject & Meaning

The figure on the left, clutching a snake, represents Prudence, while the helmeted woman with a spear embodies Fortitude. A lion at their feet reinforces the theme of strength, and the cherub adds a celestial dimension, suggesting divine endorsement of the virtues depicted.

Technique & Style

Conca employs chiaroscuro to model the forms, allowing the illuminated figures to emerge from the surrounding gloom. The subtle lighting creates a sense of depth, while the smooth brushwork and balanced composition reflect the late Baroque taste for clarity and controlled drama.

History & Provenance

Executed in 1722, the canvas entered the Alte Pinakothek’s holdings at an unspecified later date, where it remains on display as part of the museum’s Baroque collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Sebastiano Conca

Artist

Sebastiano Conca

Sebastiano Conca (1680–1764) was an artist, born in Gaeta.