Paolo Maria Antoniani (Milan 1745 - Turin 1807)
1) "Coastal View at Dawn"
2) "Coastal View at Sunset" (see other publication)
Oil on canvas
Period: circa 1780
Canvas dimensions 92 x 55 frame 99 x 62
Excellent state of conservation
Magnificent pair of paintings depicting two marine views 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 glimpsed reflecting in the waters off the bay.
The two images, already very scenic in themselves, are illuminated by a splendid twilight light with gleams 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 disappearing into the sea and releasing its last rays, coloring the entire scene pink.
The second painting in the central part features a sailing ship that stands out in silhouette and dampens the brightness of the body of water illuminated by the rising sun. The reverberation of the 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 abilities. SEE AUCTION RESULT
All photographic details of the two paintings on www.antichitaischia.it
