Still Life With Two Vases Of Flowers. Mario Nuzzi (1603-1673) And Workshop

Rome 17th century. Oil on canvas, on its original stretcher. Presented in its original frame (17th century) in wood carved with leafy motifs. Total dimensions: 95 x 120 cm. The canvas alone: 75 x 101 cm This sumptuous composition with a double vase of flowers, also imposing for its dimensions, can be compared in its presentation on a brown background on which the polychrome corollas stand out with a series of canvases presented in the Mansi collection of Lucca, documented in an inventory of 1682 which lists eight vases of flowers, large and smaller, all made by the hand of the Roman artist. Our painting is distinguished by the point of view, slightly elevated in relation to the composition plane, and by the vases; one in glass and the other in metal on which the window of the artist's studio is reflected. The tulips and roses are particularly successful, only one insect is present; the white butterfly at the top right. The lighting is still imbued with pure Caravaggism with a zenithal light directed on the bouquets which stand out against a dark background. Our painting is of the most beautiful decorative and rare effect by the placement of two bouquets of flowers. The painter: Mario Nuzzi known as "Mario dei Fiori" Rome, 1603 - Rome, 1673 His training is linked to that of Tomasso Salini, who was perhaps his uncle. His early specialization in floral painting made him the most eminent representative of this genre at his time. His success is attested by the number of his works listed in the inventories of many Roman palaces, because many patrician families owned them. Another substantial part of his production was sent abroad, notably to Spain. His absolute mastery of this genre is also reflected in his expressive nickname (Mario dei Fiori). His plant compositions sometimes include figures, which he made in collaboration with artists of the stature of Carlo Maratta. His brilliant technique belongs to the high Baroque but he also knew how to restore the small details associated with the primitive naturalism that he had learned from Salini. His production is important, it is due to his success and it is very likely that he had a workshop with many collaborators. Beautiful original condition. Sold with a certificate.