Tarquin the Elder Consulting Attus Navius
A hand-painted replica of Sebastiano Ricci’s masterpiece Tarquin the Elder Consulting Attus Navius, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
Sebastiano Ricci's painting Tarquin the Elder Consulting Attus Navius is a work by the renowned Venetian artist Sebastiano Ricci (1659–1734), who was a prominent figure in the late Baroque period. The painting depicts a scene from ancient Roman history involving Tarquin the Elder (Lucius Tarquinius Priscus), the fifth king of Rome, and Attus Navius, a legendary augur or soothsayer.
The subject of the painting is drawn from Roman historical accounts, particularly those recorded by ancient historians such as Livy. According to tradition, Tarquin the Elder sought to expand his power and implement reforms during his reign. In one notable episode, he consulted Attus Navius, who was reputed for his skill in augury, the practice of interpreting the will of the gods by studying the flight patterns of birds. The consultation is said to have revolved around a significant decision or action that Tarquin intended to undertake, though the specific details of the event vary in historical sources.
Ricci's painting captures the dramatic interaction between the king and the augur, emphasizing the tension and gravity of the moment. The composition reflects Ricci's mastery of dynamic movement, vivid color, and theatrical expression, hallmarks of the Baroque style. The figures are rendered with a sense of grandeur, and the setting evokes the majesty of ancient Rome. The work exemplifies Ricci's ability to blend historical narrative with artistic flourish, making it a compelling representation of a legendary episode.
As with many of Ricci's works, the painting demonstrates his skill in storytelling through art, as well as his ability to convey emotion and drama. While the exact date of the painting's creation is not definitively documented, it is consistent with Ricci's mature style, which was characterized by a lighter palette and a more fluid approach to composition compared to the earlier Baroque tradition.
The painting is part of Ricci's broader oeuvre, which includes numerous works on mythological, historical, and religious themes. His contributions to the Baroque movement were influential in shaping the transition to the Rococo style, particularly in his use of color and light.
Further details about the current location or provenance of Tarquin the Elder Consulting Attus Navius are not readily available in existing records.
