Drawing for a Frontispiece 1732 - 1733

This drawing for a frontispiece was made by Francesco Solimena in Italy. The artwork presents a complex allegorical scene, likely intended for the beginning of a book. Created in the late Baroque period, the drawing reflects a culture steeped in religious and classical symbolism. Angels and allegorical figures are arranged around a bust of a bishop, perhaps a prominent figure of the church. Solimena's skillful use of shading and composition aims to convey the importance and authority of the church, a powerful institution in Naples at that time. As art historians, we delve into archives and libraries to understand the social and institutional context in which this work was created. Who was the intended audience for this book? What were the prevailing ideas and debates within the church at the time? By exploring these questions, we can gain a deeper understanding of the drawing’s meaning.