Quintilia Fischieri c. 1600

Federico Barocci painted this portrait of Quintilia Fischieri, some time during his career between 1535 and 1612. Notice how the composition is structured around a play of verticals and horizontals, from the standing figure to the books on the right. The verticality of her figure, framed by a heavy green curtain, creates a sense of formality, yet this is softened by her downward gaze, which draws us into her private world. Barocci uses colour to guide our eye. The cool blues and greens contrast with the warm reds and golds, creating a visual rhythm that moves across the canvas. Quintilia’s book is positioned centrally as a focal point, suggesting it is a source of knowledge, and also power. Consider the semiotic implications: the book, the letter, the ring, each acting as a signifier. Barocci challenges fixed meanings through his dynamic use of color and form, inviting us to consider the shifting nature of identity and representation.