Plato 1660

Curator: Before us, we have Luca Giordano’s depiction of Plato, an oil painting completed around 1660. Editor: A rather somber fellow, wouldn't you say? The heavy shadow and subdued palette lend an air of pensive solitude. Curator: Indeed. But darkness wasn’t necessarily pessimistic. It signifies, also, introspection and spiritual illumination. The shadow and light interplay is what lends it that signature Baroque drama. Notice the almost saintly quality conferred by that very white beard? White here suggests purity, wisdom born of age, but also potentially… detachment. Editor: I’m captivated by the stark contrast. Observe how Giordano meticulously renders the textures – the wrinkles etched on Plato’s brow, the rough fabric of his robe. But the painting, formally speaking, relies upon contrast for visual interest; consider Plato’s luminous flesh set against the impenetrable dark. The red accent of his garment leads the viewer's eye from face to book. Curator: Speaking of the book, the slightly opened tome suggests a wellspring of hidden knowledge, partially revealed yet remaining mostly obscured, something to be carefully unlocked. He is not merely holding a book but presenting the concept of hidden esoteric wisdom that must be passed down from mentor to disciple. Editor: It's fascinating how Giordano uses Plato’s gaze. His eyes, heavy-lidded and somewhat sunken, possess a world-weariness, don’t you agree? It’s almost as if Plato sees through the ages. Is he sad about future errors? Or hopeful for understanding? His direct stare compels viewers to ponder philosophical truths alongside him. Curator: Precisely. This portrayal also subtly reinforces the philosopher as the guiding sage, carrying ancient truths into our own age. This painting is less about accurate historical portraiture, of which none would truly exist, than it is about continuing cultural values of thought, rhetoric and the pursuit of knowledge. Editor: And from a purely structural point of view, Giordano has masterfully framed a world-changing intellect into this humble format. Curator: A potent combination. A thinker immortalized and distilled into oil paint! Editor: Absolutely. It makes you contemplate your place in the larger philosophical project.