Three Philosphers By Girogione Critical Thinking Sample

The paper makes a critical analysis of the painting “The Three Philosophers “by Giorgione, focusing on the brushwork, technique, colors, etc. The oil on canvas shows three philosophers represented by the three Magi, the Holy Family being in the cave at the left. This is a very interesting artwork that was done during the High Renaissance but shows influences from the Italian Renaissance. The artist makes use of rich warm colors and deep contrasts that show the figure and their poses clearly on the landscape made of rocks, distant skies, and a village surrounded by greenery. Two of the philosophers are standing in deep contemplation while the third sits lost in his own thoughts. The sitting philosopher is the youngest one and the on to the extreme left is the oldest. The dark rocks cover the right side of the canvas while on the left side; there are dark trees that block the view of the distant village and blue sky covered with grey clouds. The philosophers were brightly colored robes that make a nice contrast against the darker background. The seated man wears robes in white and dark green, while the figure in the middle wears contrasting colors of purple and red. The oldest man is shown wearing a luminous golden robe. They wear elegant footwear on their feet and look smooth against the rough brown rocky surface. The visible fluid brushwork used by the artists allows him to give different textures in “The Three Philosophers “. One can feel the texture of the garments worn by the figures by their shine and folds. The rocks carry a rough texture while there is a different texture given by shorter brushstrokes to the foliage of the trees. The light falls from the left side and casts shadows towards the right side. There is a depth and perspective created in the canvas with the help of the distant sky with clouds, the far away village that is hardly visible and the trees. The artist draws the figures well in proportion and that brings the artwork closer to realism, and yet, there is something ethereal about it. Giorgione makes use of expressive hues under his masterful brushwork that is both liberal and subtle, thus giving fullness, volume to the figures. The result is a harmoniously beautiful expressive surface in “The Three Philosophers “.