Four Seasons in One Head c. 1590

Giuseppe Arcimboldo's "Four Seasons in One Head" (c. 1590) is an iconic example of his signature "composite portrait" style. This oil painting, which measures 60.4 x 44.7 cm, depicts a human head created entirely from fruits, vegetables, and flowers, representing the changing seasons. The head's features are formed by the natural elements, with grapes, apples, and cherries representing summer, wheat and flowers suggesting autumn, and the gnarled tree trunk symbolizing winter. This intriguing juxtaposition of realism and symbolism exemplifies Arcimboldo's unique artistic vision and his contribution to the Mannerist movement.