Portrait of a Bishop 17th century

This sculpture, of unknown date and authorship, is rendered in marble and currently resides at the SMK. The portrait presents a symmetrical and stoic figure, its formal qualities immediately striking. The smooth, cool marble contrasts with the intricate detailing of the beard and the folds of the Bishop’s attire. The tight composition focuses on the upper body, creating a sense of presence and monumentality. Note how the sculptor uses line and form to convey not just likeness, but also a sense of authority. The gaze, though fixed, seems to penetrate, reflecting a complex interplay between representation and power. This work invites us to question the role of the portrait in shaping perceptions of authority and identity. The sculpture serves as a cultural artifact which encodes both personal and institutional power.