Seated Figure of Summer (1573) by Giuseppe Arcimboldo

Seated Figure of Summer - Giuseppe Arcimboldo - 1573

Artwork Information

TitleSeated Figure of Summer
ArtistGiuseppe Arcimboldo
Date1573
Mediumoil,canvas
Dimensions63.5 x 76 cm
Art MovementMannerism (Late Renaissance)
Current LocationWest Dean House (Edward James Foundation), Sussex, UK

About Seated Figure of Summer

The artwork “Seated Figure of Summer” by Giuseppe Arcimboldo, created in 1573, is an oil on canvas painting associated with the Mannerism (Late Renaissance) art movement. It measures 63.5 by 76 centimeters and belongs to the genre of allegorical painting. The artwork is currently housed at West Dean House, under the care of the Edward James Foundation, in Sussex, UK.

This intricate piece depicts a seated figure composed entirely of seasonal produce typical of summer. The various fruits and vegetables are ingeniously assembled to form the face, body, and limbs of the figure, showcasing Arcimboldo’s mastery in creating composite images. A basket of harvested goods is placed beside the figure, reinforcing the theme of abundance. The surrounding landscape, with its warm hues and ripening fields, complements the central motif, creating a rich and detailed representation of the summer season. The artwork exemplifies the artist’s unique approach to allegory and his ability to merge natural elements into human form with remarkable skill and imagination.

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