Painted by Titian in the late 1540s, the “Portrait of Andrea Gritti” is today located in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Titian captures the almost overwhelming authority of the doge through his enormous scale and stern expression. The forceful right-hand gesture might be an allusion to Michelangelo’s celebrated “Moses,” which also conveys a sense of extraordinary power. Titian’s mastery of impasto, sheen, highlights and almost shimmering brushstroke make it one of his greatest portraits. Buona visione!