[Born at Correggio, in Italy, 1493 or 1494. Died there, 1534. Aged 40
or 41.]
Of his private life and character little is known, but his works are
justly admired throughout the civilized world, while his frescos in the
cupola of the Cathedral at Parma have earned for him undying fame. He
painted in oil and fresco. In our National Gallery we have several of
his admirable productions. As an artist, remarkable for exquisite
sensibility. “In his compositions,” says Kugler, “all is life and
motion. All his pictures express the overflowing consciousness of life;
the impulse of love and pleasure.” Delicate in perception, with great
quickness, subtlety, and depth of feeling. His forms not always
beautiful, but his treatment of light and shade masterly, and almost
unique.
[There is no bust of Correggio from the life; this is by Philippo
Albacini, and no doubt from some authentic painted portrait.]