Cosimo III de' Medici (1642–1723), Grand Duke of Tuscany 1675 - 1687

Crafted by Giovanni Battista Foggini, this marble bust portrays Cosimo III de' Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany. The immediate visual experience is one of dynamic tension. The sinuous curves of the hair and drapery contrast with the rigid geometry of the armor, which evokes a sense of controlled power. Foggini masterfully uses the texture of the marble to create a play of light and shadow, animating the Duke’s likeness. Here, form meets content as Foggini employs Baroque drama to convey not just the Duke's physical appearance, but also his political authority. This goes beyond mere representation. Consider the semiotics at play. The armor and flowing drapery act as signs which communicate power and status. Yet, the softness of the facial features and hair introduce a counter-narrative, potentially destabilizing the Grand Duke's intended image. It's a brilliant performance in stone which invites us to reflect on the complex interplay of power, identity, and representation.