Mario Nuzzi

Italian School, 18th-19th Century Follower of Mario Nuzzi, called Mario de' Fiori (Rome, 1603 – 1673) Flower vase on a table, Technique: Oil on canvasDimensions of canvas: 75.5 x 70.5 cm Support: Canvas on original wooden stretcher. It bears an old conservation re-lining. Frame: Included. Carved and polychromed wood in Armenian bole with finishes in gold leaf and perimeter decoration of acanthus leaves. This sumptuous still life is a magnificent testament to the persistence and commercial success of the fixed botanical models of the Roman school during the Seicento, formally extended by Italian workshops during the eighteenth century. The work is organized through a rigorous pyramidal composition and markedly symmetrical. From a gala classical cup —characterized by its metallic body, slender volute handles and a gilded, fluted base— springs a lush and dense bouquet composed of a rich variety of floral species with vibrant chromaticism, where peonies, roses and tulips stand out. The painter demonstrates an absolute mastery of Baroque theatricality by staging the vase scenographically with two heavy green curtains enriched with gold tassels and fringes. Furthermore, the use of a neutral dark background creates a deep light contrast (Caravaggist-rooted chiaroscuro) that visually isolates the subject, highlighting with great plasticity the impasto, volumes and the subtle textures of the petals. Condition: The canvas is in good overall conservation condition, fully in line with its age. The painted surface exhibits a fine, homogeneous craquelure evenly settled on the fabric, an unmistakable technical feature of the natural aging of 18th-century paint binders. It shows an aged patina and minor old restorations that are perceptible only under specialized technical examination or Wood lamp. The canvas is structurally stable and does not require urgent intervention. Bibliography of Reference: , Bocchi G. & Laureati, L. (2005). Pittori di Natura Morta a Roma: Il Seicento. Artioli Editore. (Fundamental work for the study of Roman still lifes, gala vase typologies and the composition of botanical workshops). Zeri, F. (1989). La Natura Morta in Italia. Electa. (Critical referential study on the continuity and commercial evolution of Mario Nuzzi’s compositional formulas in the Italian workshops of the eighteenth century). From a private collection Note : “To guarantee the safety and perfect condition of the work, depending on its size and nature, its transport and delivery may be carried out by the seller.”

Estimate:£1,418.27

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