Correggio | High Renaissance Master of Illusionism

Jupiter and Io by Correggio c. 1532 Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna

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Around 1518, Correggio was working in Parma where he was commissioned for several large works for church. While in Parma he developed the illusionistic style for which he is famous based on Mantegna's work. He explored religious themes as well as mythological ones, including a series on the Loves of Jupiter for Federigo Gonzaga in c. 1530. In these sensual works painted at the height of his career, he displayed his superb mastery of foreshortening and remarkable atmospheric effects that prefigure later works by Rococo artists like Boucher.

Brenda Harness, Art Historian