Study for "The Apotheosis of Ferdinand IV and Maria Carolina, King and Queen of Naples" (for the Palazzo dei Regi Studi, Naples) by Pietro Bardellino (Italian, 1728–1810)

Pietro Bardellino (Italian, 1728–1810) · 1781-01-01

This is Pietro Bardellino's 1791 preparatory study for "The Apotheosis of Ferdinand IV and Maria Carolina, King and Queen of Naples." The artist died before completing the final fresco, leaving this sketch as a poignant glimpse into his unrealized vision.

Observe the ascending figures, the regal crowned heads, and the dynamic cloud formations that create a celestial atmosphere. Note the gesture of aspiration in the figure reaching upwards, embodying the theme of apotheosis.

Bardellino, an Italian painter known for his Rococo style, was commissioned to create a significant work for the Palazzo dei Regi Studi in Naples. Such studies were vital steps for artists to refine composition and color before executing large-scale projects.

While the grand fresco was never finished, this oil sketch remains, a testament to the artist's ambition and the ephemeral nature of artistic creation.

Details

This area provides depth and contrast, grounding the celestial scene and highlighting the illuminated figures.

Transcript

This painted study depicts an ascension. The crowned figures represent royalty. The artist planned a grand Neapolitan fresco. Look at the swirling cloud formations. This study shows the composition being refined. Look at the figure reaching upwards. The artist died before finishing the fresco. His preparatory sketch remained unfinished.