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Antique Italian Orientalist oil painting of a street scene by S. Fabrizi

Creator: S. Fabrizi
Offered by: Mayfair Gallery

Description
Antique Italian Orientalist oil painting of a street scene by S. Fabrizi
Italian, 1882
Canvas: Height 55cm, width 80cm
Frame: Height 83cm, width 107cm, depth 4cm

This richly detailed Orientalist painting by Italian artist S. Fabrizi captures a lively street scene in Tlemcen, Algeria. Active during the late 19th century, Fabrizi was known for his evocative depictions of North African life, and his works are held in prestigious collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

Painted in 1882, this composition offers a vivid glimpse into a sun-drenched Algerian village. Clad in traditional attire to shield themselves from the intense heat, local residents are seen gathered along the side of a whitewashed building. Some are seated on low benches or resting directly against the walls, while others stroll along the path toward the viewer. To the left, a donkey and rider add a subtle narrative detail that enhances the sense of authenticity.

Fabrizi uses his mastery of composition to divide the scene into two distinct zones: the lower portion, alive with human activity, and the upper section, dominated by a brilliant, cloudless sky that evokes the dry warmth of the region. Above the courtyard walls, delicate green foliage peeks through, with individual leaves rendered through precise, textured brushwork. The rooftop bursts with untamed wildflowers, while clusters of cacti flourish on the right - a rare but visually striking element in Orientalist landscapes.

The painting is presented in an ornate giltwood frame, intricately embellished with Islamic-inspired motifs. It bears the artist’s signature in the lower right: ‘S. Fabrizi, Tlemcen / 1882’. A label affixed to the frame reads ‘An Arab Village / S. Fabrizi / 19th Century’ and a later retailer’s label remains on the back.

Finely executed and full of atmosphere, this remarkable oil painting is a superb example of 19th century Orientalist art and would make an outstanding addition to any collection of fine European paintings.

Provenance:
- With Mathaf Gallery, London
- Christie's London, Sale 5560, 15 March 1996, Lot 78

Artist/Maker: S. Fabrizi

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Origin:	Italy
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Oil Paint, Canvas, Giltwood.
Creation Date:	1882
Styles / Movements:	Other
Dealer Reference #:	18046
Incollect Reference #:	819417

Dimensions

W.	42.13 in;	H.	32.68 in;	D.	1.57 in;
W.	107 cm;	H.	83 cm;	D.	4 cm;

Message from Seller:

Mayfair Gallery, located in London’s exclusive Mayfair district, specializes in exceptional art and antiques from the 19th and early 20th centuries, featuring works by renowned artists and craftsmen. With a focus on quality and historical importance, our diverse collection unites exquisite pieces that exemplify unparalleled artistry. | jamie@mayfairgallery.com | 44.207.491.3435 |