Tomb of the Duke of Devonshire

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through a captivating work in our collection: Tomb of the Duke of Devonshire, painted in 1725 by the masterful Sebastiano Ricci. This large-scale painting, measuring an impressive 1.38 meters wide and 2.17 meters high, immediately draws you into its dramatic world. Currently residing at the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, this piece is a stunning example of Baroque artistry. nn The painting depicts a classical ruin, a breathtaking scene teeming with life and history. At its heart sits a grand, ornate tomb, the focal point of the composition. Intricate carvings adorn the tomb, featuring sculpted figures – perhaps angels or allegorical representations – adding a layer of symbolic depth. The muted beige and cream tones of the tomb beautifully contrast with the darker shadows in its recesses, creating a sense of three-dimensionality. Above, fragments of a classical frieze hint at a richer, lost past. nn Ricci's technique is masterful. He skillfully uses light and shadow to model the forms of both the architecture and the numerous figures populating the scene. The background reveals further remnants of a grand classical structure, rendered in a palette of browns, grays, and muted greens, suggesting age and decay. A lush green tree and a statue of a man on horseback add further visual interest. The figures themselves, dressed in the fashions of the 17th or 18th centuries, are painted with a vibrant range of colors, adding a layer of human drama to the scene. nn The overall mood is one of quiet contemplation, perhaps even a touch of melancholy, perfectly reflecting the themes of power, history, and mortality suggested by the setting. The interplay of light and shadow, the rich detail of the architecture, and the engaging human interactions create a complex and captivating composition that continues to resonate with viewers centuries later. Ricci's Tomb of the Duke of Devonshire is a testament to the enduring power of Baroque art and a must-see for any visitor to the Barber Institute of Fine Arts.