Raphael and the Fornarina

作品描述

Raphael and La Fornarina is an oil painting on canvas executed in 1813, in Italy, by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres. It is the first of five versions of the painting he produced between 1813 and his death in 1867. In 1814 his first version was exhibited at the Salon of that year. The work shows the renowned painter, Raphael, sitting in his studio with his mistress, La Fornarina, on his knee. His embrace reflects his affection and desire for her, while his gaze towards his own artwork, his portrait of his mistress, indicates his love for art. This contrast represents the painter's major conflict between who he loves and what he loves. The mistress makes eye contact with the viewer and her posture, specifically her arms resting on his shoulders, shows how proud and satisfied she is with being his mistress and inspiration. The Fornarina's sensual gaze at the viewer claims her importance and place both within the artist's studio and profession.