Oil on canvas, relined Italy, 2nd half 18th century Carlo Lodi (1701-1765) – Important landscape painter of the School of Bologna Nicolas Bertuzzi, called l'Anconitano (1710-1777) – Figure painter of the School of Bologna This work is accompanied by a scientific essay by Prof. Giancarlo Sestieri, Rome (available as a copy) Dimensions: 135 x 155.5 cm Original gilt stucco frame: 154 x 174.5 cm Pictorial composition by Carlo Lodi, who was a true master of fantastic architectural landscapes and often collaborated with Nicolas Bertuzzi, one of the best figure painters in Bologna The present work shows a capriccio with enchanted ruins in a magical atmosphere. The Bolognese painter Carlo Lodi thereby followed the tradition of his time and rated as one of the most sought-after virtuosos regarding the treatment of light. From 1753 he started a fruitful collaboration with Nicolas Bertuzzi, called l'Anconitano, since his figures were recognizable for their typical verve and characteristic for their very volatile gestures. Here, the artist has described the prayer of a capuccine monk, surrounded by a reverently listening community. The presence of the painter in Carlo Lodi’s canvases reveals not only the fruitful collaboration of both artists, but also their high standards of artistic finesse that enthused the Bolognese clientele. Condition: The painting is in good condition, consistent with age. The canvas is relined and slightly wavy along the edges, due to the underlying stretcher. Inspection under UV light reveals areas of retouching to the sky and to the landscape; some of them are slightly discolored. Besides, there are faint abrasions of paint in the lower right corner, the varnish is slightly darkened. The craquelure is even and very fine. Nicolas Bertuzzi (1710-1777) Nicola Bertuzzi was born in Ancona in 1710. He studied at the Bologna Academy under Donato Creti and Vittorio Maria Bigari. In 1752 he became an honorary member of the Academy of Arts and a short time later was appointed director of the Classe di Figura. In 1774 he was finally honored with the title ‘Principe’, the highest academic position. Nicola Bertuzzi is one of the greatest exponents of landscape painting in Bologna in the 18th century, who worked also in close cooperation with the landscape and architectural painter Carlo Lodi. Carlo Lodi (1701-1765) Born in Bologna Carlo Lodi was fist schooled by Angelo Michele Cavazzoni, followed by an education by the leading landscape painter Nunzio Ferrajuoli degli Afflitti. Soon after finishing his studies he became a successful painter, his works were extremely popular with the public. He created with preference scenery-like landscapes with figure staffage in bright colors. He is considered as one of the most prominent representatives of landscape painting in Bologna in the 18th century. (cbo) Shipping costs excl. statutory VAT and plus 2,5% (+VAT) shipping insurance. Starting Price : 7000