Artwork

Tarquin the Elder Consulting Attius Navius

Tarquin the Elder Consulting Attius Navius, by Sebastiano Ricci, oil, 1696
Tarquin the Elder Consulting Attius Navius, by Sebastiano Ricci, oil, 1696

Tarquin the Elder Consulting Attius Navius is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Sebastiano Ricci. It dates from 1696 and is held in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum.

About this work

Overview

Tarquin the Elder Consulting Attius Navius is a 1696 oil painting by Sebastiano Ricci, a Venetian artist known for his dynamic style. The work is part of the J. Paul Getty Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a scene from Roman history, showing the Etruscan king Tarquin consulting the augur Attius Navius. Five figures are arranged before a stone building and blue sky, with a kneeling figure holding a tool and gazing up at a robed man who points towards the sky.

Technique & Style

Ricci's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama through strong contrasts between light and dark. The composition and color palette guide the viewer's eye through the scene, showcasing the artist's skill.

History & Provenance

Created in 1696, the painting is an example of early Baroque Italian art. Ricci was active alongside artists like Tiepolo and mentored his nephew, Marco Ricci, a landscape innovator.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Sebastiano Ricci

Artist

Sebastiano Ricci

Sebastiano Ricci (1 August 1659 – 15 May 1734) was an Italian Baroque painter of the late Baroque period in Venetian painting.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: J. Paul Getty Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.