This is the portrait of Balzarino Cusani, an ancestor of the Cusani family from San Giuliano. Like other paintings from this era, it has a very interesting optical feature. As you move from right to left in front of the portrait, Balzarino's eyes seem to follow you. This technique, called optical correction, was quite popular in the 17th century to make the painting appear more lifelike. Although, it must be said, Balzarino's gaze can be a bit unsettling. As children, we were quite frightened by it!