Anton Francesco degli Albizzi

Sebastiano's successful career was built on a succession of high profile commissioned portraits and that continues here with a grand depiction of Anton Francesco degli Albizzi

As an artist who sat for the Pope there were no limits to the career of Sebastiano once he reached his pinnacle. Noble men and women would appear from all angles to request his services, having heard of the artist's skills in portraiture.

More sombre colour schemes appeared in his work once he moved away from Venice. The influence of artists such as Titian, Giorgione and Bellini would slowly fade as he started to mix with the likes of Michelangelo and Raphael. He would also later become stuck in the middle of a bitter battle between these two masters.

Each and every element of a successful portrait must be considered, from the clothing and pose of the subject to the facial expression that they deliver and also any other items that adorn the scene. Often objects will be added that point to the prominence or profession of the model.