The bust executed by Andrea Baratta unquestionably shows the influence of Bernini’s work. The references to Francesco I’s sculpture are evident especially in the compositional choice of using drapery as a frame around the Duke’s bust and in the position of the face.
Comparing it with the work of the famous Baroque artist, however, reveals the limitations of Andrea Baratta’s sculpture: the voluminous drapery shows an excessive presence of curls that weigh down the portrait, even the thick wig that falls over the shoulders loses the naturalness and softness that Bernini had skilfully expressed in his work. The artist sculpts Francesco II’s severe features in marble, and although the young duke’s face is rendered naturally, there is no emotion in his gaze to characterise the portrait and the duke’s image appears weak. Francesco II’s petite face is framed by the thick curled wig and a rich lace jabot.
In the collection of the Galleria Estense there is another bust of Francesco II by the same artist but of lesser importance (inv. no. 2610).
