Holy Family

Cesare Francia, known as the Pollino
16th cent. 

Perugian miniaturist Cesare Franchi known as the Pollino, was an artist of International fame whom Federico Zeri considered one of the best in the figurative style of 16th century Europe. A well-known miniaturist of his time, active between Perugia and Rome, only a few of his works remain. Sources mention a stay in Rome where he served many pontiffs, although no work remains.

It is highly likely that Pollino kept in mind the work of Giulio Clovio, who had worked in Perugia in the service of Cardinal Marino Grimani, thus strongly influencing the development of local illumination. It is also very possible that he was influenced by the artistic school that sprung up around Clovio, which had created works such as the illuminated manuscripts of Pius V.