ALBA, Macrino d' Alba Paintings

Macrino d'Alba, whose real name was Gian Giacomo de Alladio, was an Italian painter active during the Renaissance period. Born around 1465 in Alba, Piedmont, he was a prominent figure in the Piemontese school of painting. Not much is known about his early life and training, but he is believed to have been influenced by the Lombard school of art, and possibly by the work of Leonardo da Vinci.

Macrino's artistic career was mostly concentrated in Northern Italy, particularly in his native Piedmont region. He was known for his religious paintings and his delicate handling of color and light. His style is characterized by soft, gentle figures and a serene, otherworldly quality. Among his notable works are several altarpieces and frescoes for churches in Alba and the surrounding area.

One of his most famous works is the 'Madonna and Child with Saints' for the church of San Domenico in Alba. His paintings often depicted holy figures imbued with a sense of piety and grace, and his attention to detail in drapery and backgrounds was notable for the period.

Despite his clear talent and the quality of his work, Macrino d'Alba never achieved the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries. Nonetheless, he left a legacy of work that is appreciated for its contribution to the Piemontese Renaissance. Records of his life after the 1520s are scarce, and his date of death is approximated to be around 1528. His works can still be seen in various churches and museums, offering a glimpse into the religious and artistic sensibilities of Northern Italy during the early 16th century.