Cardinal Philippe de Lévis 1475

Antoniazzo Romano painted 'Cardinal Philippe de Lévis' using tempera on wood in the late 15th century. The dark background creates a stark contrast with the Cardinal's pale face and hands, drawing our attention to the figure's serene profile. Romano's formalism emphasises clean lines and shapes, giving the painting a geometric quality. This structured composition reflects the intellectual atmosphere of the Italian Renaissance, where clarity and order were highly valued. The cardinal’s garments in vibrant red and white indicate his high status within the church, acting as semiotic markers of power and authority. The meticulous rendering of the hands in prayer adds to the sense of devoutness, reinforcing a cultural narrative of piety. Ultimately, it is this formal arrangement which speaks to the cultural codes of the time and offers a glimpse into the visual language used to convey social and religious standing.