An artwork on Galleree from Rijksmuseum.
About the artwork
Giuliano & Francesco Giamberti da Sangallo Piero di Cosimo (1462–1522), Piero di Cosimo, 1482 - 1485h 47.5cm × w 33.5cm
Piero di Cosimo
oil on panel
In a serene room filled with the whispers of history, two figures emerge from the canvas, echoing the rich legacy of craftsmanship and creativity. On one side stands Giuliano da Sangallo, a leading architect of Florence, adorned with the solemn dignity of his craft. Beside him, his late father, Francesco, who not only breathed life into structures with his architectural prowess but also wove melodies as a musician.
The diptych unfolds like a storybook of artistry. Each brushstroke speaks of generations—of knowledge passed down, of passion ignited. The air feels thick with the weight of their shared legacy. Here, created long ago, is one of the early examples where a subject's profession is depicted with such profound significance.
On Giuliano's side, a pen and dividers rest effortlessly, symbols of architecture that speak louder than words. They are more than tools; they are the very essence of his being—reflecting the precision and harmony required in his work. Across from him, musical notes dance lightly around Francesco, suggesting a melody that transcends time, echoing the rhythmic pulse of life itself.
Together, they present a remarkable duality. Architecture and music, two disciplines entwined, united by the threads of harmony and proportion. Just as a symphony plays out in perfect balance, so too does architecture stand firm, a testimony to human creativity and the unbreakable bond between father and son. In this diptych, we find not just portraits, but a deep reflection on the intertwining of artistry, family, and the enduring quest for beauty.
About the artist
The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands. We tell the story of 800 years of Dutch history, from 1200 to now. We showcase over 8,000 works of art, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. In addition, we organize several exhibitions per year from our own collection and with (inter) national loans. In the Rijksmuseum you get to know the greatest works of art down to the smallest details.The artwork posted on this site is through the museum's public domain/CC0 data and does not imply endorsement.
Address: Museumstraat 1, Amsterdam, Netherlands
The best place to view Rijksmuseum‘s artwork is on Galleree. Hear the story behind this work, interact with the image, discuss with people, curate your own playlists, and discover so much more from great artists and institutions alike.