The Tribute Money c. 1485

Titian made ‘The Tribute Money’ using oil paint, a medium that allowed him to explore the qualities of light and texture. The painting’s appearance is deeply influenced by the nature of oil paint itself. The pigment is suspended in oil, allowing for rich colors and subtle gradations of tone, which Titian uses to great effect in rendering flesh and fabric. He builds up layers of paint, a technique that gives depth and luminosity to the scene. Oil paint also allows for corrections and refinements over time. But beyond the materiality, the work’s subject hints at a deeper context. The very notion of tribute money is bound to economic and political realities, reflecting systems of taxation and governance that affect every level of society. The work put into the production process—from grinding pigments to applying delicate glazes—mirrors the social dynamics it represents. Ultimately, understanding the materials, processes, and socio-political context is crucial to appreciating the full significance of ‘The Tribute Money.’