The Two Foscari
- Original dimensions
- 132 x 93 cm
- Movement
- Romanticism
- Museum
- musée Condé
- Year
- 1855
Scene depicted
The painting depicts a poignant scene of exile and family tragedy, where Francesco Foscari, Doge of Venice, is torn between his duty and emotional ties. The human figures intertwine with dramatic nuances, the desperate gaze of his son evoking a tragic story unfolding before our eyes, a true pictorial work where emotion is palpable and vibrant.
Historical context
Created in 1855, at the crossroads of Romanticism, The Two Foscari is a visual narrative set in the historic city of Chantilly, where it is housed in the musée Condé. This painting reflects a time rich in emotions and artistic expressions, with Delacroix's painting distinguished by its intensity and depth.
Place in the artist's career
The Two Foscari marks a pivotal moment in Delacroix's career, a peak where his romantic style fully blossoms. Alongside works such as Liberty Leading the People and The Death of Sardanapalus , this painting demonstrates his artistic evolution, showcasing a refinement in the use of light and emotions.
Anecdote
“Art is an expression of the noise of the heart” Delacroix might have said one spring morning under the Parisian sky. It was in a moment of tranquility that he sketched the first lines of this masterpiece , inspired by memories of ancient stories and vibrant human emotions. The echo of this scene still resonates in the canvas , like a whisper from the past.
Major exhibitions
1855 World Exposition