Portrait of Antonio Cappello, 1520, Oil on Canvas

The painting depicts Antonio Cappello, a prominent member of the Cappello family, of the San Polo branch in Venice. Born around 1494 and died in 1565, Cappello held important positions for the Republic of Venice, including the prestigious position of prosecutor in 1525, a position reserved for figures of great responsibility and influence.

The portrait, acquired at a Milanese auction in the 1960s, had previously been attributed to Tintoretto, one of the most celebrated artists of the Venetian Renaissance. The non-coeval golden frame that frames the work enriches the represented figure, giving further solemnity and recalling the richness and importance of the subject in the Venetian society of the 16th century. The gilding of the frame, done in gold leaf, creates a refined effect that underlines the value of the work and the high status of the subject.

The painting was subjected to various technical analyzes to verify its authenticity and state of conservation. The investigations include the use of an optical microscope in reflected polarized light, which allowed the artist's surface and painting techniques to be examined, as well as providing details on brushstrokes and materials. An analysis was also carried out with UV lighting, useful for highlighting any previous touch-ups, paints or restorations.

A more detailed examination was conducted using the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the EDS electron microprobe. These advanced techniques revealed information on the chemical composition of the pigments, confirming the authenticity and quality of the materials used.

Overall, the Portrait of Antonio Cappello represents not only a work of art of historical value, but also a fascinating testimony to the high technical level of the Venetian artists of the 16th century, who combined pictorial skills with valuable materials and refined techniques of realization.
Painting measures 113x89
with 145x120 frame