Visitation by Pontormo
One of the most admirable examples of early Florentine Mannerism
Made between 1528–29, The Visitation is an oil on panel painting by Jacopo Carucci (known as Pontormo), commissioned by the Pinadori family.
The work depicts Mary, with child, visiting her cousin Elizabeth, also pregnant with John the Baptist, representing one of the most admirable examples of early Florentine Mannerism. For centuries, it has been safeguarded at the San Michele e Francesco Parish Church in Carmignano (currently closed for restoration works).
The shimmering colours that alternate between reds, greens and greys, the elongated forms, the intersecting perspectives of the four women’s gazes and the German influence of Durer’s painting style all made this portrayal truly emblematic of the spirit of an artistic period that was transitioning from classicism to anti-classicism.
Pontormo concentrated on the intimate aspect of the encounter, but highlights the sense of mystery that surrounds the two women and the atmosphere of anticipation for the two imminent and exceptional births.
The Visitation in Carmignano is Pontormo’s third variation of the theme: the first was made for the Carro della Moneta, which depicts the women’s embrace and is conserved in the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, while the second is located in the Church of the Santissima Annunziata, also in Florence.
The Visitation was moved in September 2024 to the Villa Medicea in Poggio a Caiano pending the completion of works at the Parish Church. For information on visits, see museitoscana.cultura.gov.it.
