A Jurist
c. 1550
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
overall: 82 x 71.5 x 34.3 cm (32 5/16 x 28 1/8 x 13 1/2 in.)
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Widener Collection
Accession Number
1942.9.145
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the National Gallery Art's Widener Collection *A Jurist* is a striking bronze sculpture attributed to a Paduan artist from the 16th century, dating to around 1550. Hailing from Padua, vibrant hub of Renaissance artistry in northern Italy, this work exemplifies the region's mastery of bronze casting. At over 82 cm tall, the life-sized figure captures a jurist—likely a lawyer or judge—in a dignified pose, reflecting the era's fascination with classical antiquity and humanist ideals. The medium of bronze, prized for its durability and ability to convey rich textures and subtle patinas,...