Still life of flowers in a garden

oil on canvas

57 x 72 cm.

with frame 74 x 89 cm.

This delightful painting, depicting a sumptuous arrangement of flowers scenically arranged in an outdoor garden, is the work of a painter from the circle of Francesco Lavagna (Naples, 1684–1724), one of the most renowned figures in early 18th-century Neapolitan still life alongside Gaspare Lopez, both of whom trained in the studio of Andrea Belvedere.

This is an excellent example of the aesthetic standard and expressive qualities achieved by the painter, who was capable of creating vibrant compositions of great aesthetic impact and characteristic rocaille style, whilst also displaying a fine chromatic sensitivity, enhanced by skilful use of glazing and varying thicknesses of paint.

A distinctive and recurring element in his artistic compositions is the white majolica plate with blue decorations. Lavagna often included vases, jugs and ceramic plates in delicate shades of blue to create luminous contrasts with the vivid colours of flowers and fruit. The presence of these objects reflected the period’s taste for fine craftsmanship circulating in the port of Naples, including pieces inspired by Oriental porcelain.

Neapolitan still life, once sought after by major collectors and intended to adorn the finest palaces of Naples, found in Francesco Lavagna a prominent exponent, much loved by such patrons, with his canvases that were never banal and endowed with a descriptive power of remarkable visual impact.

The compositional choices are typical of the painter’s repertoire; he loved to create his floral compositions

featuring various species, set en plein air within gardens, with plants placed in vases and arranged on the ground with apparent randomness and disorder.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The work is sold complete with an attractive gilded frame and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic sheet.

We arrange and organise the transport of purchased works, both within Italy and abroad, using professional and insured carriers.

You can also view the painting at our gallery in Riva del Garda; we would be delighted to welcome you to show you our collection of works.

Please feel free to contact us for any further information.

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