Attilio Simonetti, “Society of Nursery Schools”.

Attilio Simonetti, (Rome, 1843-1925) “Società degli Asili d'Infanzia”, Indian ink, ink and sepia on paper. Dimensions: 29×21,5 cm. Golden frame present.
On the back it bears a scroll which reads “N° 12 …this painting in sepia/brown ink is the work of the Roman painter Attilio Simonetti (Rome 1843-1925) the title of the ink is “the Society of Kindergartens. the ink was donated by the painter's great-granddaughter Antonella Giovannini Soldini to her niece Francesca Frascari in 1994/95. Francesca Frascari”. Also on the back, a photographic reproduction of the works is attached with an imprinted stamp bearing the words "Francesca Frascari Collezione d'Arte". From this photo, it is clear that the drawing, probably a preparatory sketch for a work of greater scope, but still characterized by a refinement, a virtuosity and an executive quality that has nothing to envy of the oils on canvas by the same author, is period it was dressed in another frame, probably the one from the same period as the painting in question, later replaced with another of more recent workmanship.
The originality of the sketch is authoritatively affirmed by its publication in the catalog “Attilio Simonetti, fashionable painter and antiquarian in Rome”, edited by the Berardi Art Gallery (catalogue number 149).
Simonetti was a pupil and friend of Fortuny, whose Roman studies he shared, as well as his travels to Italy, France and Spain. He was greatly inspired by the master's painting, especially in the themes, almost exclusively centered on figures and genre scenes of contemporary life, of orientalist or costume subjects. Around 1880, he became a friend of Filippo Palizzi, who sensitized him to a closer naturalism and animalist painting. Appointed executor for the sale of objects collected by Fortuny during his travels, he became passionate about antiques, with a particular predilection towards ancient art. It is a rare signature, with a national and Anglo-Saxon market.
A certificate of originality is issued in accordance with the law.