Luca Giordano – Allegory of Fortitude Part 6 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a complex narrative centered around a figure embodying fortitude, set against a dramatic backdrop of turbulent skies and a landscape populated by allegorical figures. The central male figure, clad in regal attire – a white robe trimmed with fur, a golden sash, and armor – stands atop a stone plinth or architectural element that elevates him above the surrounding scene. He gestures outwards, seemingly bestowing blessings or encouragement upon those below. His posture conveys an air of unwavering resolve and authority.
Above him, two winged female figures, presumably angels or personifications of divine attributes, occupy the upper portion of the canvas. One holds aloft a flaming torch, symbolizing enlightenment or inspiration, while the other carries a staff topped with a globe, likely representing dominion or universal power. Their placement reinforces the central figure’s elevated status and suggests a celestial endorsement of his fortitude.
The lower register is populated by a diverse group of figures, each contributing to the allegorical nature of the work. To the left, a female figure in classical garb holds aloft a staff adorned with laurel leaves – a traditional symbol of victory and honor. Adjacent to her, another woman, armored and helmeted, stands beside a lion, an emblem often associated with courage and strength. A small child sits on the lion’s back, perhaps signifying the continuity of virtue or the nurturing of fortitude in future generations.
On the right side of the composition, a man dressed as a hunter stands alongside a dog, evoking themes of vigilance, loyalty, and perseverance. At his feet lies a prostrate figure, seemingly defeated or overcome by adversity. This element introduces a visual contrast to the central figure’s strength, highlighting the consequences of lacking fortitude. A chained satyr is also present on the left side, possibly representing base desires or temptations that must be resisted in order to maintain virtue.
The artist employs a dynamic use of light and shadow to enhance the drama and emotional impact of the scene. The central figure is bathed in a warm, golden light, while the surrounding figures are rendered with varying degrees of illumination, creating depth and visual interest. The turbulent sky, painted in deep blues and purples, adds to the overall sense of grandeur and suggests an environment fraught with challenges.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of resilience, virtue, and the triumph of strength over adversity. It appears to be a celebration of fortitude as a guiding principle for individuals and societies facing hardship or temptation. The inclusion of allegorical figures and symbolic objects imbues the work with layers of meaning, inviting viewers to contemplate the nature of courage and its importance in navigating life’s challenges.