Bellini - St. Francis

Bellini's St. Francis.

Giovanni Bellini (1430 – 1516) was an Italian Renaissance painter, probably the best known of the Bellini family of Venetian painters. His father was Jacopo Bellini, his brother was Gentile Bellini, and his brother-in-law was Andrea Mantegna. He is considered to have revolutionized Venetian painting, moving it towards a more sensuous and colouristic style. Through the use of clear, slow-drying oil paints, Giovanni created deep, rich tints and detailed shadings. His sumptuous coloring and fluent, atmospheric landscapes had a great effect on the Venetian painting school, especially on his pupils Giorgione and Titian. Mr. Thomas Holloway, one of Tittenhurst Park's former residence is said to have acquired lots of art, especially one particular beautiful painting by Bellini of 'St. Francis'.

The Bellini and its companions adorned the billiard room at Tittenhurst until the death Holloway, who bequeathed them to his sister-in-law.