The famous image of Andrea Doria in the guise of Neptune was painted by Bronzino for the collection of effigies of illustrious men by Paolo Giovio, a prominent figure in the culture of the 16th century. Of the painting executed for Giovio, now preserved at the Pinacoteca di Brera in Milan, there exists a second version, now visible in the Perseus room of Villa del Principe. The painting from the Doria collection was probably created by Bronzino between 1545 and 1546. In the canvas, Doria, depicted in heroic nudity, partly inspired by Michelangelo's David, is leaning against the mast of a ship and holds an oar in his right hand. The face appears idealized compared to the real features of Andrea Doria and is characterized by a long wavy beard, traditionally attributed to Neptune.
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Title:Portrait of Andrea Doria as the God of the sea