Scuola lombarda del XVII secolo

Lombard school, 17th century Portrait of a boy with an apple oil on canvas 109 x 78 cm - 127 x 97 cm with frame Complete details of the painting (click HERE) The protagonist of the painting offered is a chubby boy, approximately five years old, a young member of an aristocratic family of the 17th century: he wears sumptuous but sober clothes, consisting of a wide short cape with bell shape with gold trim and buttons, which covers the dress in shades of red. The analysis of the details of the beautiful portrait, and in particular of the stylistic type with which its features have been delineated, leads us back to the great tradition of the Lombard school of the seventeenth century, although there are also influences, in the details of the dress, of Spanish fashion: a more than plausible aspect given that in that historical period Spain dominated Europe not only in the political field but also in terms of fashion and customs (and especially in Lombardy, under Spanish rule). The golden detail of the buttons and the red of the dress, a color taken up in the stockings and in the bow that closes the shoes, stand out on the almost monochrome essential setting within which it is portrayed. The apple held in the hand is interesting and traditionally - a reference to Venus's apple - was included in portraits as a symbol of good omen, alluding to a future marriage; in wealthy families it was in fact customary to organize unions between the descendants of the families at a young age to mutually strengthen their power. Perhaps the painting was therefore a marriage promise, commissioned as a presentation card of a small man to be given to the family of the future bride. In addition to the apples, he holds a hat under his arm, as if to already emphasize his future as a full-fledged member of high society. Although those traits of rigor and austerity typical of the portraiture of this period are present, they are mitigated by the candid expression of the face, which scrutinizes the observer with a typically childlike gentleness. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The work is sold complete with a pleasant frame and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and descriptive iconographic sheet. We take care of and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. It is also possible to see the painting in the gallery in Riva del Garda, we will be happy to welcome you to show you our collection of works. Contact us, without obligation, for any additional information. Also follow us on: https://www.instagram.com/galleriacastelbarco/?hl=it https://www.facebook.com/galleriacastelbarco/