Mario Nuzzi

Italian School of the 18th-19th century Follower of Mario Nuzzi, known as Mario de' Fiori (Rome, 1603 – 1673) Floral vase on a table, Technique: Oil on canvasDimensions of the canvas: 75.5 x 70.5 cm Support: Canvas on original wooden stretcher. It has an old conservation re-stretch. Frame: Included. Carved and polychromed in Armenian bole with gold leaf finishes and a perimetral decoration of acanthus leaves. This sumptuous still life is a magnificent testament to the persistence and commercial success of the botanical models fixed by the Roman school during the Seicento, formally extended by Italian workshops during the 18th century. The work is organized around a rigorous pyramidal composition and markedly symmetrical. From a classic gala cup — characterized by its metal body, slender volute handles and a gold-gilded fluted base — emerges a lush and dense bouquet composed of a rich variety of floral species with vibrant color, notably peonies, roses and tulips. The painter demonstrates an absolute mastery of Baroque theatricality by scenographically framing the vase with two heavy green curtains enhanced with gold braiding and tassels. Likewise, the use of a neutral dark background creates a deep luminosity contrast (Caravaggisti-root chiaroscuro) that visually isolates the matter, highlighting with great plasticity the impasto, volumes, and subtle textures of the petals. State of Conservation: The canvas is in good overall condition, fully in line with its age. The painted surface exhibits a fine, uniform craquelure perfectly settled on the weave, an unequivocal technical feature of the natural aging of 18th-century binders. It shows an antique 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. Reference Bibliography: , 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 reference study on the continuity and commercial evolution of Mario Nuzzi’s compositional formulas in Italian workshops of the 18th century). From a private collection Note : “To guarantee the safety and perfect condition of the work, depending on its volume and nature, its transport and delivery may be carried out by the seller.”

Estimate:£1,695.22

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