The Madonna of the Pesaro Family 1526

Titian painted this monumental altarpiece in Venice with oil on canvas. He manipulated ground pigments and binding oils to convey depth and grandeur. Titian carefully considered the materiality of oil paint to create a sense of realism. Look closely at the folds of the clothing, and the textural contrasts between flesh, fabric, and stone. The paint mimics the qualities of the surfaces it represents. The application of paint itself, in layers, is an important part of the story here. From initial sketches to the final glazes, it would have taken months. The commission for the painting came from Jacopo Pesaro, a member of a wealthy Venetian family. Displayed here at the Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, the scale and richness of the materials, point to the wealth and power of the patrons. Titian was at the forefront of a sophisticated workshop. He combined technical skill with a keen understanding of the social context in which he worked. The result is a demonstration of artistry, craft, and commerce, all in one impressive package.