Ludovico Beccadelli

Ludovico Beccadelli (1501–1572) was an Italian Catholic archbishop, humanist, and writer. His portrait, painted by Titian in Venice in 1552, is regarded as one of the master’s finest works. In the painting, Beccadelli holds an unfolded letter that clearly bears both Titian’s signature and the sitter’s name, identifying him with his titles as Bishop of Ravello and Apostolic Delegate in Venice—honors granted by Pope Julius III.

The portrait received immediate acclaim. Pietro Aretino praised it in a celebratory sonnet, admiring not only the fidelity of the likeness but also Titian’s ability to capture the sitter’s serene yet authoritative presence. Beccadelli himself was a prominent figure among the spirituali, those within the Church who sought internal renewal and reform during the challenging years of the Counter-Reformation.