Chapter 1
Renaissance rebel at the royal court
Chapter 2
Deciphering the composite masterpieces
Chapter 3
Reversible riddles and modern legacy
Ch 2 · Deciphering the composite masterpieces
schopenhauer Composite masterpieces
Spin the canvas round and watch the still life fade away, A hidden veggie face is looking back at you today!
BETA
schopenhauer Decode the composite masterpieces to discover the hidden objects Arcimboldo used to paint faces.
schopenhauer In his famous painting 'The Librarian,' Arcimboldo used books, bookmarks, and dusters to poke fun at wealthy scholars.
Fun Fact
Summer ear: In Arcimboldo's 1563 painting 'Summer,' the figure's ear is represented by a realistic ear of corn, a newly imported American crop.
schopenhauer The 'Elements' series weaves animals and objects associated with Earth, Air, Fire, and Water into complex human profiles.
Glossary
allegory (noun)
A picture, story, or poem that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden, typically political or moral meaning. Giuseppe Arcimboldo used natural elements to symbolize the seasons and the power of his imperial patrons.
A picture, story, or poem that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden, typically political or moral meaning. Giuseppe Arcimboldo used natural elements to symbolize the seasons and the power of his imperial patrons.
Quiz
In Arcimboldo's painting 'Earth,' what animal is cleverly used to form the cheek and ear of the figure?
Quiz
In the painting 'Summer' (1563), what plant is cleverly used to form the ear of the subject?
Quiz
How many different species of marine life did Arcimboldo paint in 'Water' with scientific accuracy?
Quiz
Which of Arcimboldo's famous painting series represents the stages of human life using seasonal flora?
Quiz
What animal forms the cheek and jaw of the figure in Arcimboldo's painting 'Water'?
Quiz
In Arcimboldo's painting 'Fire,' what objects are cleverly used to form the character's hair?
Quiz
In 'The Librarian,' what everyday cleaning item is used to represent the scholar's beard?
Quiz
In the painting 'Winter' (1563), what object or substance serves as the main body and skin of the gnarled old man?