Large antique Italian figurative oil painting of Venice by Paoletti

Large antique Italian figurative oil painting of Venice by Paoletti
Italian, Late 19th Century
Canvas: Height 57cm, width 82cm
Frame: Height 87cm, width 111cm, depth 11cm
 
This superb oil painting is by the acclaimed Italian artist Antonio Paoletti (1834–1912), whose finely detailed genre scenes beautifully capture the spirit of 19th century Venice. Known for his ability to portray everyday moments with warmth and realism, Paoletti transports the viewer directly into the lively and romantic atmosphere of historic Venice.
 
Set on the stone steps that descend from the city into the canal, the composition features three youthful figures: a boy and two girls. The boy, seemingly a vendor, is shown leaning forward near a generous basket brimming with ripe cherries. A second container, this one overflowing with fresh flowers, suggests he may also be selling blooms. Cherry stones scattered on the ground convey both the quality of the fruit and the delight it brings to the scene’s participants.
 
Engaging in this tender moment, the boy watches as the younger girl - her back turned to him - offers the cherries to an older female figure, likely a sibling or guardian. A rustic woven basket filled with food and refreshments sits nearby, grounding the scene in domestic simplicity.
 
Behind this interaction, Paoletti’s depiction of Venice unfolds with remarkable finesse. A line of moored gondolas edges the canal, one carrying passengers drifting peacefully through the water. Other figures populate the background: some seated in silent thought, others engaged with one another. The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, an architectural landmark, rises prominently in the distance, flanked by sun-washed buildings and gently moving boats. Above, a luminous sky tinged with orange and soft white clouds suggests a pleasant afternoon under clear Venetian light.
 
The painting is presented in an ornate, finely carved giltwood frame and bears the artist’s name in two places: centrally inscribed on the frame and signed on the lower right of the canvas as ‘Antonio Paoletti fu Giov=ni / Venezia’.
 
With its harmonious composition, rich narrative, and exceptional craftsmanship, this beautiful artwork stands as a refined example of Paoletti’s talent and is a valuable addition to any discerning collection of 19th century European or Italian painting.
 
Artist/Maker: Antonio Paoletti