The artistic career of Alessandro Turchi spanned the transition from the Veronese school to the high Baroque period in Rome. Known by the nickname L'Orbetto and the alternative name Alessandro Veronese, he cultivated a reputation for painting historical subjects on black marble, securing commissions from figures like Cardinal Scipione Borghese and Cardinal Francesco Barberini during his four decades of professional practice.
Early Training in Verona
Born in 1578, Turchi began his training under Felice Riccio, also known as il Brusasorci. By 1603, he established himself as an independent painter in Verona. Following the death of his master in 1605, Turchi collaborated with Pasquale Ottino to complete several unfinished canvases. During this period, he produced significant local works, including organ shutters for the Accademia Filarmonica and an Assumption altarpiece for the church of San Luca.
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Turchi moved to Rome by 1616 to participate in high-profile projects, including fresco decorations for the Sala Reggia of the Quirinal Palace. His Roman portfolio grew to include works for San Lorenzo in Lucina and San Salvatore in Lauro. He also produced specific commissions for private collectors, such as the Allegory of Fame painted for Count Giangiacomo Giusti in 1620, and Saint Anthony of Padua for the Farnese Palace in 1629.
Professional Standing and Leadership
The artist achieved significant institutional recognition in the 1630s. With the support of Cardinal Francesco Barberini, Turchi served as Principe of the Accademia di San Luca starting in 1637. A year later, he became a member of the Pontifical Academy of Fine Arts and Letters of the Virtuosi al Pantheon. He married Lucia San Giuliano in 1623 and remained active in Rome until his death in 1649.
Fast facts
- Born: 1578, Verona
- Died: 22 January 1649, Rome
- Citizenship: Republic of Venice
- Movement: Veronese school
- Occupations: Painter, draftsperson
- Notable Works: Death of Cleopatra, The Flood, Mystic Marriage of St. Catherine, Maria with Child
- Notable Roles: Principe of the Accademia di San Luca
Questions readers ask
What unique technique is Alessandro Turchi known for?
He frequently painted historical subjects on black marble, a signature stylistic choice in his cabinet pictures.
Where can his works be found today?
His paintings are located in various international collections, including the cathedral of Sant'Andrea in Bordeaux and the Palazzo Mattei di Giove in Rome.
Achievements
- Notable work: Death of Cleopatra
- Notable work: The Flood
- Notable work: Mystic Marriage of St. Catherine
- Notable work: Maria with Child
- Movement: Veronese school
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