Circle of Faustino Bocchi

Private collection, France;
Anonymous sale, Paris, Tajan, 16 June 2015, lot 15 (as Faustino Bocchi).

Faustino Bocchi (Brescia 1659–1741) is celebrated for his highly accomplished fantastical scenes, usually dominated by dwarves engaged in outlandish tasks. This scene draws on Bocchi's imaginary narratives: an army of dwarves, dressed similarly in bold primary colours, struggle to carry oversized loaves of bread, slices of cake and eggs. Such humorous compositions were a legacy of the earlier generation of 'Bamboccianti' and were highy prized by contemporary collectors.