The Adoration of the Magi

Guercino (1591–1666) – Master of Light and Emotion Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, known as Guercino, was one of the most expressive painters of the Italian Baroque. Born in Cento, near Bologna, he earned his nickname—meaning “the squinter”—due to an eye condition, but it was his dramatic use of light and movement that truly defined his vision. Largely self-taught, Guercino absorbed the influence of the Venetian and Bolognese schools, blending the rich colorism of Titian with the dynamic compositions of Carracci. His early works are marked by bold chiaroscuro and intense emotion, reflecting the theatrical spirit of Caravaggio. In 1621, he was summoned to Rome by Pope Gregory XV, where he painted for the papal court and executed his masterpiece, The Burial of Saint Petronilla. Following the Pope’s death, Guercino returned to Bologna, adopting a more classical and refined style. His later years were highly productive, and his workshop became one of the most sought-after in Italy, producing altarpieces and mythological scenes for European collectors. His ability to infuse paintings with both spiritual intensity and lyrical grace ensured his enduring influence. Today, Guercino’s works are held in major collections worldwide, including the Louvre, the National Gallery in London, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, testament to his genius in capturing the human soul with unparalleled vibrancy.