Francesco Vinea

Francesco Vinea (Italian, 1845–1902).

This work is offered in a giltwood frame.

A delicately painted and character-filled study of a grey-haired Franciscan monk, shown playing the guitar and directly engaging the viewer with a candid and humorous gaze. Displayed in a substantial and period gilt-gesso and carved wood frame.

Francesco Vinea first studied at the Academy of Fine Arts of Florence, but had to interrupt his studies due to his poverty. He spent some time traveling and working as a photographer's assistant and as a designer of illustrated magazines before returning to Florence to study under professor Enrico Pollastrini, the notable Italian figural and history painter.

Vinea was not inclined to the erudite historical or literary paintings, or earnest depictions of natural scenes, favored by some academic contemporaries. He preferred imaginative, often raffish or coquettish, but always elegant depictions of characters in costume. These paintings proved popular in England and France, and Vinea was soon making a comfortable living. His studio on Boulevard Prince Eugene in Florence is depicted as a treasurehouse of exotic items and eclectic furniture, with Gubernatis describing Vinea's studio as his greatest work of art. The ceiling was painted in tempera with Olympic gods, in allegory to the fine arts, and his collection of collectible and bijou items haphazardly displayed. Vinea's canvases, like the genre paintings of Meissonier, are well-designed witticisms, smiling color, interiors full of life and of panache and levity.

We are pleased to offer a psychologically penetrating study of a witty and erudite member of this storied monastic order.

Accompanied by certificate of authenticity

Maxwell Galleries, San Francisco