Portrait of Arrigo Licinio and his Family Bernardino Licinio (1485-aft.1560)

The composition presents a group portrait of what appears to be a patriarchal family unit. Seven individuals are arranged in a tightly grouped formation against a dark, undefined background, which serves to emphasize their presence and importance. The central figure is a woman, positioned slightly forward, holding an infant in her arms while offering a bouquet of flowers towards the viewer. Her gaze is directed outwards, suggesting a sense of composure and perhaps even invitation.
Flanking her are two men, presumably the husband and another male relative or older son. The man on the left wears dark clothing with a fur-trimmed collar, conveying an impression of status and authority. He looks directly at the viewer, establishing a connection that reinforces his position within the group. The figure to the right is dressed in more contemporary attire, including a beret, which might indicate a younger generation or a different social standing. He holds a small statuette, possibly symbolic of learning or artistic appreciation.
Surrounding these central figures are five children, varying in age and gender. Their expressions range from solemnity to curiosity, contributing to the overall sense of familial unity and continuity. The youngest child, held by the mother, is rendered with meticulous detail, highlighting his vulnerability and importance within the family structure.
The artist’s use of light is significant; it illuminates the faces and upper bodies of the figures, drawing attention to their individual features while simultaneously uniting them in a shared glow. This technique creates a sense of depth and realism, enhancing the emotional impact of the scene. The color palette is rich and warm, dominated by reds, browns, and golds, which further contribute to the impression of prosperity and familial warmth.
The inscription visible at the top right corner suggests a biblical reference or a moral lesson intended to accompany the portrait. It likely reinforces the values associated with family, piety, and social standing that the painting aims to convey. The arrangement itself – the woman as the focal point, surrounded by her male counterpart and offspring – hints at traditional gender roles and hierarchical structures prevalent in the society from which this work originates. Overall, the painting seems designed not only to record a likeness but also to project an image of familial stability, virtue, and social prominence.