Tintorettos Paradise

9 Feb-5 Aug 2006.

The painting of Paradise in the Sala del Maggior Consiglio in the Doges Palace in Venice is one of the worlds largest on canvas, measuring around 8m high by 27m long. It was painted by Jacopo Robusti, known as Tintoretto, during the last 6 years of his life (1588-1594). In the latter stages of the work, when he had moved the canvas into its final position in the Hall of the Great Council, he was helped by his son Domenico, who filled in details like drapery etc. Many of the heads and costumes were painted directly from nature. This exhibition at the Louvre entitled Le Paradis de Tintoret, Un concours pour le Palais des Doges traces the preparatory works for this colossal painting which some see as the crowning production of Tintorettos life. While the commission for the work was still pending, it is said that Tintoretto used to tell the Senators that he had prayed to God to be awarded the commission, so that Paradise itself might be his reward after his death. Around 30 paintings trace the various stages which lead up to the completion of his visionary work. Jean Habert, from the Department of Paintings at the Muse du Louvre is the curator of this unique exhibition in the Sully wing, first floor, Salle de La Chapelle. Admission 8.50 all-day ticket, 6 evenings 18.00-21.45. Mon, Thurs, Sat, Sun 9.00-18.00 Weds, Fri 9.00-21.45.