Wonderful Italian painting from the mid-18th century. Oil work on canvas depicting a large landscape animated by peasant figures and grazing animals, set near a waterfall that flows from a cliff dominated by rustic architecture. The composition stands out for its theatrical scenic construction: in the foreground a young woman sitting converses with a traveller, while a little further on beautifully painted cows and sheep are arranged. In the background, the narrative expands with further groups of figures that animate the landscape, creating a highly effective atmospheric depth. The presence of the waterfall and the architectural ruins introduces a picturesque element of fully eighteenth-century taste for the natural whim.
The work can be attributed to the great painter Francesco Antoniani (1700-1775), for the fusion between view and genre scene, for the narrative liveliness and for the soft and diffused luminous rendering. The brushwork is loose but controlled, with particular attention to the rendering of the animals and atmospheric passages, distinctive elements of northern landscape painting of the time (the painting is not currently accompanied by expertise, but it is possible to request it upon payment of the relevant additional costs). From 1743 he worked at the House of Savoy, becoming one of the protagonists of the decoration of the Piedmontese royal residences. He was famous for his landscapes, seascapes and architectural caprices and his technique is characterized by lively brushwork and refined plays of light.
The painting is part of a pair (see photo and ask for the price of the pendant if still available). Painting of great pictorial quality and rare elegance, ideal for refined environments, professional studios or reception rooms. Superb 19th century frame in finely carved and gilded wood, with some signs of aging. Work already restored with relining, replacement of the frame and color recovery in small spots. Overall in good state of conservation. Painting light H 89 x W 100.5 cm.
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SILVER Seller in Cuneo, Italy
