Offered by Brozzetti Antichità
18th Century, Painting with Architectural Capriccio with figures, attributed to Isaac De Moucheron
Measures: canvas cm H 108 x L 152; with frame cm H 132 x L 176 x 8
The painting is a significant example of architectural whim (that is, architectures or parts of them imaginative and fantasy) set in the Roman surroundings, where sumptuous architectures (with arches, columns, capitals and balustrades) stand out in the foreground of classical inspiration, modified by baroque elements, and in turn surrounded by an imposing ancient aqueduct in partial ruin which, gradually losing itself in the background, gives the painting a set of effective depth.
In detail, the composition represents a large space, in front and surrounded by imposing structures, where some aristocratic characters entertain in pleasant conversation in a serene and relaxed context of normal everyday life (see the two noblewomen with poodle). There are subjects of lower social background, intent on material occupations. A large drape is suspended between the columns to create a space more reserved for the refreshment of noble visitors. The architectures are outlined with skill and undoubted knowledge of perspectives; the light that radiates between the arches and the columns determines effective chiaroscuro games. The color palette gives preference to light shades with dense but at the same time fluid and delicate brushstrokes on a surface made uniform by careful preparation of the substrate. The figures are rendered naturally, finished in detail, as the delicate texture of lace and lace of noblewomen.
The work is attributed to Isaac De Moucheron (Amsterdam 1667/70-1744), painter, engraver, architect, Dutch by birth but of French origin. The artist specialized in views and landscapes often characterized by complex classical and baroque architecture, made on the models designed during his youth stay in Rome and set in a naturalistic context with archaic trend characterized by intense brightness and sought colorism on the example of the contemporary and compatriot Gaspar Van Wittel and the French Gaspar Dughet.
The stylistic comparison with other signed paintings of the author allow to refer the painting to De Moucheron, placing the painting at the period of maturity of the author, when to the mannerism of the landscape, typical of the dominant Romantic naturism, the artist develops a specific originality.
The work is accompanied by authentic Cesare Lampronti.
