Sophie Pelissier on exploring the genius of Titian
posted on 01/06/17
As an art history graduate and Titian admirer, I was thrilled to join a group of enthusiastic MRT clients as a tour assistant on our London Day, The Genius of Titian, just before Christmas.
Art historian Sheila Hale, author of Titian: His Life & the Golden Age of Venice, led a sprightly dance around the artist’s paintings in the National Gallery and Perseus & Andromeda at the Wallace Collection. After a morning spent deep in discussion about the expressive faces of Titian’s subjects, or the botched restoration attempts of previous generations, you would be forgiven for feeling deflated at the idea of lunch. However, seasonal fare at the National Dining Rooms reinvigorated everyone for the afternoon sessions.
The small size of the group allowed for easy interaction between Sheila and her eager listeners, one of the attractions of our gallery visits. This was how an unexpected revelation came about when one gentleman, a retired ballet dancer, pointed out to Sheila the implausible modelling of Bacchus’ foot as he leapt athletically out of his chariot into mid-air. Evidence indeed perhaps that there is much to be learned on an MRT London Day, by both a recent graduate and even by a leading expert.
The Genius of Titian, led by Sheila Hale, will be returning for two more departures on 6 December 2017 and 14 February 2018.
By Sophie Pelissier, Client Relationship Assistant.
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