Italian school (XIX) - Studio di corazza e falde d’armatura rinascimentale

Italian 19th-century painter “Study of cuirass and Renaissance armor plates” (from a nucleus of three works/studies) Second half of the 19th century, circa 1850–1880 Pictorial technique on a fibrous support applied to a wooden panel in a wooden frame Measurements: 47 x 31.6 cm in an era-made frame Description The panel depicts frontally a complete cuirass with articulated protections for the upper legs, isolated against a neutral beige background. The absence of a human figure and any setting gives the image the appearance of an antiquarian study of armor, conceived to document its structure, form, and joints. The upper part is dominated by a wide metallic breastplate, strongly contoured, characterized by a pronounced central ridge that descends toward the waist. The painter builds volume through shades of gray, green-iron, and black, with light highlights along the central rib that effectively simulate steel reflections. The lower portion is particularly accurate. At the belt, secured by straps and buckles, are two wide articulated protections, consisting of numerous overlapping metal plates riveted together. These are the thigh protections commonly referred to in armor terminology as tassets or splints. The construction with overlapping plates allowed some mobility while maintaining protection for the pelvis and thighs; similar solutions appear in European armors of the 16th century. Very interesting are the brown-golden details: borders, straps, buckles, and rivets rhythmically punctuate the surface of the steel. The painter does not seek a spectacular or narrative representation, but seems mainly interested in the material construction of the object, describing separately plates, joints, riveting, and fastening systems. Support and condition The photographs show that the painted surface does not necessarily appear to have been executed directly on wood: it seems prudent to describe it, in the absence of material examination, as a painting on a fibrous support applied to a wooden panel. The support shows widespread patina of time, stains and surface alterations; in the lower-left corner there is a clear gap in the surface coating, exposing the underlying layer. There are also abrasions, small marks, and inconsistencies compatible with the age and nature of the object. The legibility of the two armors remains good. The simple brown wooden frame, similar to that of the other elements in the series, helps confirm the unity of the core. *** Note on photographs Some of the accompanying photographs for this dossier were taken professionally with controlled artificial lighting, using a studio spotlight, in order to guarantee better legibility of the work and allow a more precise observation of the painted surface, figurative details, and chromaticity. The frame is supplied with the work as a courtesy and is not part of the substantive sale. Any imperfections, losses, or damages to the frame, including those arising from transport, cannot be grounds for dispute or compensation related to the work. - Certificate of legitimate provenance and Expertise - Insured shipping and electronic invoicing

Schätzpreis:€400

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