19th Century Oil inlaid with Mother of Pearl - Italian Figures on a Veranda

Description

A unique and flamboyant oil painting on papier mache panel inlaid with Mother of Pearl, depicting Italian figures on a Veranda. There are 4 pearl like bead decorations strongly fixed down to the 4 corners of the panel. This technique has involved the insertion of pieces of iridescent shell and mother-of-pearl into a panel support, followed by the painting of a figural composition with both opaque and translucent paints. The result, best seen under candlelight, produces a shimmering effect in which the natural materials are enhanced by the artifice of the painter to create a precious object of otherworldly attraction. This oil painting is well presented in an ornate gilt frame. Unsigned. On panel.

Condition

There is scattered craquelure present but the paint layer is still very stable and sound. There is fading to some areas of the border design. There is also some yellow staining to the top right section (sky area). Small area of paint loss to upper left corner of frame, and some surface scratch marks to the top edge of the frame.

Size

22 x 29cm (8.7" x 11.4")
Framed Size: 34 x 41.5cm (13.4" x 16.3")