Paolo Maria Antoniani (Milan 1745 - Turin 1807)
1) "Coastal View at Dawn" (See other publication)
2) "Coastal View at Sunset"
Oil on canvas
Era: circa 1780
Canvas size: 92 x 55 cm, Frame: 99 x 62 cm
Excellent condition
A magnificent pair of paintings depicting two seascapes characterized by coastal inlets enlivened by numerous figures and boats. The fantastic panoramas are enriched by a series of monuments, fortresses, and ruins that stand on the sides of the bodies of water. In the background, other sailing ships and buildings can be seen reflecting in the waters off the bay.
The two images, already very scenic in themselves, are illuminated by a splendid twilight light with glimmers and chiaroscuro effects emphasized by the reflections on the smooth surface of the water.
One of the paintings, which depicts the sunset, features a radiant sun that disappears into the sea and releases its last rays, coloring the entire scene in pink.
The second painting, in the central part, features a sailing ship that stands out against the light and dampens the brightness of the body of water illuminated by the rising sun. The reverberation of marine reflections illuminates the entire coast with a cold, almost lunar, light.
The contrast between the two canvases is magnificent, with an incredible series of plays of light on all the figures, the boats, and the surrounding landscape.
The works are undoubtedly attributable to the Milanese landscape painter Paolo Maria Antoniani, who worked with great success in the noble palaces of eighteenth-century Turin. He was a great interior decorator, and the noble Piedmontese families competed for his works.
He decorated the Royal Palace of Turin and the Palazzina Stupinigi.
Our two canvases, which are also very similar to a pair sold by Sotheby's in 2006, are a valid example of his skills. SEE AUCTION RESULT
All photographic details of the two paintings on www.antichitaischia.it
