Sebastiano Del Piombo was a High Renaissance painter born in Venice. He was never considered a productive or disciplined painter, and he often avoided the technique of fresco. His works were predominately portraits and religious subjects. He worked alongside notable artists like  Raphael and was acquainted with Michaelangelo. Oil was his medium of painting.

Salome with the Head of John the Baptist or The Daughter of Herodias is a circa 1510 oil on panel painting

This painting conveys a woman holding the head of John the baptist. I find this compelling because of the dominating and unbothered expression of someone holding a decapitated head. I love the realistic rolled-up blue and white silk sleeves. It is a great reference to study his painting technique for textures. I would use this painting as a guide to practice and emulate his methods for smooth and illuminated textures.

Madonna with the Veil

Date: 1525

There’s something very calming and serene about this painting. The muted colors co-ordinate with soft expressions and transparent cloth. It’s pleasing to the eye, especially seeing the baby in slumber.

Pietà

Date: 1517

This painting is both sorrowful and hopeful. An interesting contrast which seems to represent these moods through colors. It appears the focal point is Mother Mary because the light is shining on her. The theme of Hope seems to dominate this painting.

Death of Adonis

This is mythological painting has a very interesting composition. The rule of thirds placement is unexpected. The subject and title suggest the dead body of Adonis to prevail in the painting, but he is rather in the distant background. However, the reactions and expression of the people in the foreground are more enticing.

Tod des Adonis

Date: 1505

This painting seems to be off the grid from his religious and mythological paintings. That’s why it seems unusual hence the painting technique which looks quite stippled.