Titian’s design accentuates the poet and scholar’s intellect. Sannazaro holds a page in his book with a finger and looks out of the painting pensively, suggesting that whatever he is reading has provoked deep contemplation. The artist uses colour sparingly. It is strongest in the red cover of the book and the contours of the sitter’s face, connecting the source of his learning to the result (an enlightened mind).

Presented to Charles II in 1660 by the States of Holland and West Friesland upon his restoration to the throne