A name like this one conjures up the idea of a master illusionist, circus artiste or inventive genius. In reality, Giuseppe Arcimboldo was one of …the greatest artists of the 16th century: he was a much-acclaimed painter, portraitist and pageant designer at the court of the Hapsburgs, where he lived for over 25 years. If Arcimboldo is not a household name today, it is undoubtedly because few of his original works have survived.
The exhibition at the Musée du Luxembourg unveils the mysterious world and strange, extravagant works of this artist, best known for his ingenious portrait heads composed of objects like plants, fruits, flowers and so on.
When his work was re-discovered in the early 20th century, many considered him to be the pioneer of modern art.
Besides his composite portraits, the exhibition displays a significant selection of about 40 oils on canvas, drawings, illustrated works and tapestries dating from Arcimboldo’s early days in Lombardy to the years he spent at the Hapsburg court.
Don’t miss this exceptional exhibition of the work of one of the most inventive artists of the Mannerist school.
From 15 September 2007 to 13 January 2008
> Musée du Luxembourg 19, rue de Vaugirard 75006 PARIS