The Challenge of Barletta (or Fieramosca or La mischia)

“The Challenge of Barletta” - chivalrous clash between thirteen Italian knights and as many French knights held on 13 February 1503 to avenge the offense of a Frenchman who called the Italians cowards - represents a return to the classicism and tradition that animated the artist’s research between the world wars. Clear and direct are the references to the "Battle of San Romano" by Paolo Uccello and some scenes from the "History of the True Cross" by Piero della Francesca in the Basilica of San Francesco in Arezzo. The excitement, movement and dynamism of the scene are enhanced by a close-up shot, which reduces any landscape seduction and expresses the energetic value of the composition.