Conferences

We remember Augusto Gentili, Professor of Early Modern Art History at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, through his fascinating lectio magistralis held at Galleria Borghese on Titian’s “Sacred and Profane Love.”
The professor shares an intriguing anecdote regarding the two figures whose wedding prompted the commission: Laura and Francesco. He points to a historical document that restored confiscated property to the woman; among these items was a white satin dress, which may very well be the one depicted in the painting.
Two women are portrayed in the work, bearing a striking resemblance to one another. One is elegantly dressed, while the other is nearly nude. One gazes directly at us, making the viewer a direct witness to the scene. Also present is a Cupid, his arm submerged in an ancient sarcophagus overflowing with water. Through this gesture, he creates an initial harmony and “accord” between the two female figures.