Buy a copy of Pope Urban II Preaching the First Crusade in the Square of Clermont

Q: Is Pope Urban II Preaching the First Crusade in the Square of Clermont under copyright?

No, this artwork is in the public domain.

Artwork Description

The painting was executed for the brothers Enrico and Gaetano Taccioli, well-known patriots who commissioned other important works from Francesco Hayez, and was shown in the Esposizione di Belle Arti di Brera in 1835. The canvas, which was the property of Litta Modignani in 1934, reappeared on the antique market in the 1990s when it was purchased by Cariplo. The episode of Peter the Hermit preaching in the square of Clermont, in the presence of Urban II is inspired by Joseph-François Michaud’s Histoire des croisades, translated into Italian in 1826. After the Council held in Clermont in November 1095, the pope launched his famous appeal inviting Christian knights to intervene in defence of the Church, and to aid their Eastern brothers in the Holy Land. In his faithful pictorial transposition of the literary text Hayez arranges the scene around the tall throne erected for the pope in the square packed with a huge crowd, and focuses on the main events: Peter the Hermit’s preaching and the distribution of red cloth crosses destined to be worn by those who engaged to do battle. This canvas once again displays the artist’s indisputable skill in rendering the garments and setting within the precise reconstruction of an episode drawn from medieval history, and above all it reveals the potential of history painting to express the feelings and reactions of a crowd. Powerful dramatic and emotional moments alternate with moving elegiac scenes of farewell, like that of the couple kissing in the foreground or the woman left alone with her baby, an obvious allusion to the father’s departure. When it appeared in 1835 it had a mixed reception from the critics: some said the composition was disorganized in its orchestration of the numerous different groups and the handling was too hasty especially as regards the crowd in the distance, but most praised the freshness of the execution and the rich variety of expression. Hayez also painted other works on the theme of the Crusades, full of political allusions to the contemporary Italian situation and the need for national liberation: the famous Peter the Hermit, 1829 (private collection), a real appeal to the cause of independence, and Thirst for the Crusades (Turin, Palazzo Reale).

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Artist Biography

early life and training

francesco hayez, a renowned italian painter, was born on february 10, 1791, in venice, italy. his father, giovanni, was of french origin, while his mother, chiara torcella, hailed from murano. the young francesco showed a predisposition for drawing and was apprenticed to an art restorer by his uncle.

artistic career

hayez's artistic journey began in 1806 when he enrolled in the new academy of fine arts in milan, where he studied under teodoro matteini. in 1809, he won a competition that granted him a year's study at the accademia di san luca in rome. this exposure to various artistic influences shaped his style, which would later become a hallmark of italian romanticism.

notable works and style

hayez's oeuvre is characterized by grand historical paintings, political allegories, and exceptionally fine portraits. some of his notable works include:

the kiss, considered one of his best works by contemporaries, which has gained esteem over time.
pope urban ii preaching the first crusade in the square of clermont, a significant piece showcasing his historical narrative style.
portrait, matilde juva-branca, exemplifying his skill in capturing the essence of his subjects.

museums and collections

hayez's works are featured in various museums, including the civica galleria d'arte moderna in milan, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.

pope urban ii preaching the first crusade in the square of clermont (235 x 157 cm, fondazione cariplo, milan)
francesco hayez's profile on ArtsDot
wikipedia: francesco hayez

legacy and impact

hayez's influence on italian romanticism is undeniable. his work has been a subject of study for art historians and enthusiasts alike, with his pieces continuing to inspire new generations of artists. key dates: - february 10, 1791: born in venice, italy - 1806: enrolled in the new academy of fine arts, milan - december 21, 1882: passed away, leaving behind a legacy in italian art

Francesco Hayez

1791 - 1882 , Italy

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Romanticism
Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Neoclassicism']
Artists Who Influenced This Artist: ['Teodoro Matteini']
Date Of Birth: February 10, 1791
Date Of Death: February 12, 1882
Full Name: Francesco Hayez
Nationality: Italian
Notable Artworks:
- The Kiss
- Pope Urban II preaching the first crusade
- Portrait, Matilde Juva-branca
Place Of Birth: Venice, Italy

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