zoom_in Click to enlarge

Bust of Lorenzo de' Medici by Verrocchio

▲ ▼

language

description Bust of Lorenzo de' Medici by Verrocchio Overview

This polychrome terracotta bust of Lorenzo de' Medici, commonly known as "the Magnificent," was created by the Florentine sculptor Andrea del Verrocchio around 1478. It captures the distinct physiognomy of the de facto ruler of Florence, portraying him with an introspective expression and dressed in contemporary garments. Verrocchio's use of painted terracotta demonstrates the Renaissance interest in naturalism and lifelike detail in portraiture. The artwork is currently housed in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., providing historians with insight into 15th-century sculptural practices.

help Bust of Lorenzo de' Medici by Verrocchio FAQ

What material did Verrocchio use for his bust of Lorenzo de' Medici?

Unlike many marble portraits of the era, Andrea del Verrocchio created this bust of Lorenzo de' Medici using polychrome terracotta. The painted clay gave the artwork a lifelike appearance that was highly innovative for its time.

Who was the subject of Verrocchio's 1478 bust?

The bust captures the distinct physiognomy of Lorenzo de' Medici, commonly known as "the Magnificent." He was the de facto ruler of Florence and one of the most prominent patrons of the Italian Renaissance.

When was the Bust of Lorenzo de' Medici created?

The terracotta bust was created by the Florentine sculptor Andrea del Verrocchio around 1478. It dates to the height of Lorenzo's power in Florence.

What is the artistic style of Verrocchio's Lorenzo de' Medici bust?

The bust portrays Lorenzo with an introspective expression and slightly downcast eyes, breaking the strictly profile-oriented tradition of earlier Quattrocento portraits. Verrocchio's naturalistic modeling emphasized the unique, somewhat rugged facial features of the Medici ruler.

swap_horiz

Looking for Bust of Lorenzo de' Medici by Verrocchio alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward