For this response, I decided that I was going to do a painting which we hadn't previously studied. We had looked over some of Tintoretto's work but not the piece in which I'm going to discuss.
This is from Tintoretto's Adam and Eve in Front of God which was painted in 1550-1553
It's incredible, the mannerist style of Tintoretto. I really appreciate how he starts from a background of black or dark color and from there works forward. The typical lack of focal point in mannerist painting is not found in this painting, as the character of God or the fruit is a stand out focal point. This is not, however in the center, which is very common of Renaissance art. The realism of the bodies and their reactions with light is breathtaking, particularly upon Adam. God is mostly cast in shadow, but the main light source is coming from behind Him, bringing a greater feeling of majesty and awe to God. The shame and guilt exist within the body and face of Adam and Eve, but almost a sense of explanation seems to be desired from Adam as he points to the fruit in hope that grace will be given to him and his counter at this time. God looks away from Adam and Even in sadness of what He must do in the future.
I was really really impressed with this painting which hung in the latter part of the Uffizi gallery in Florence.
I looked for a picture of this online, but wasn't successful. I'm sorry friends,
Ry
I agree - a very striking picture. Not many artists seem to include God the Father in such an intimate way so close to man. The relationship is close and caring. God is holding onto the tree trunk and almost seems undecided as what to do next. Unlike so many other works where God is in the clouds looking from afar. Tintoretto brings the spiritual down into the physical plane with broad, sharp emotive colours. Anyone who finds an online picture please post! (Not the more famous Adam & Eve minus God painting.)
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