Sassoferrato

The Virgin in Prayer

Sassoferrato

1640-50

'Sassoferrato places emphasis on the softly modelled draperies, the white veil and brilliant blue cloak, painted in ultramarine. The face remains largely in shadow, the eyes downcast, and this has the effect of highlighting the hands joined in prayer. '

The colours used in this painting are so perfect and presented so vibrantly against the solid black backdrop, that looking at it from the screen of a computer does it no justice at all. You can find this gracing the walls of The National Gallery in London, which if you ever get the chance to visit, you really really must!! In real life this painting looks completely 3D, Like you could put your hand into the picture and feel every drape and crease in the fabrics. I really do not think that talent like this exists anymore, i've yet to see the work of a modern painter who uses as much detailling and takes as much time to produce such photographic-like images.

The colourway of ultramarine, coral and white are going to definately be of some influence on my spring wardrobe this year! :)



-a