Frederic Leighton: Preparing for "Cimabue"

"Cimabue's Madonna Carried in Procession" by Frederic Leighton

"Frederic Leighton had a supreme object in view when he decided to go to Rome, and one which he felt he could only achieve there.  He had but one idea - to paint his great 'Cimabue' picture. Great he meant it to be, though how great he did not quite know, nor had his master Steinle the faintest idea that it would come out in the heroic proportions which it ultimately assumed.

Leighton took a studio in the Via della Purificazione, and after fitting it up comfortably, he set to work to sort out and arrange the bundles of studies and piles of sketchbooks which contained the products of his two years' residence in Frankfort. The most conspicuous object in the studio was the complete design for his great picture. Models had to be found; fine figures, striking faces, and beautiful features, were sought which should enable him to mark his composition with distinction.

His great work made rapid progress. He pencilled and monochromed endless studies from the nude, and elaborated his treatment of draperies. Organized visits of fashionable English dilettanti were made from time to time to view the picture, and afterwards the visitors were accustomed to adjourn to some neighbouring studio to discuss its merits. 'Among the rest,' says a friend, 'was a young and merry English girl, who was asked her opinion. 'I'm no judge,' she replied, 'of artistic composition; but I know Leighton is the best waltzer in Rome!'

After a critique from a respected artist, and after much thought, Leighton made up his mind to alter the 'Cimabue.' 'No sooner said than done,' added an admirer, 'and with a swift sweep of his brush he destroyed all the work he had put into the leading part of the composition.' A horse and his rider, the dogs and the gathering of spectators beyond disappeared, and after a little time the group of ecclesiastics and the children scattering flowers were roughly brushed in.'

Early in January, 1854, the full-sized canvas [231.8 cm x 521.4 cm / 7.6 ft. x 17.1 ft.] for the great picture was squared up and the painting began."

To be continued

(Excerpts from "Lord Leighton of Stretton, P.R.A." by Edgcumbe Staley.)