Faun, Nymph and two putti, Pietro Liberi (Padua 1605 – Venice 1687) follower of

Pietro Liberi (Padua 1605 – Venice 1687) follower of

Faun, Nymph and two cherubs

Oil on canvas (62 x 82 cm. – In frame 85 x 104 cm.)

Full details of the work (click HERE)

The subject of the proposed painting, drawn from Greek mythology, shows a faun, a mythological figure half man and half goat originally from Arcadia, in a moment of family intimacy with a nymph and two cherubs.

Although there are no specific references, it could be the family of the god Pan, lying in the left foreground intent on playing his traditional flute made of bamboo canes, with his wife the nymph Echo and his two little sons, Iunge and Iambe, one of whom holds a wineskin or a vessel, perhaps of wine, from which the other is drinking.

The scene is characterized by a bucolic atmosphere, typical of mythological representations of the time, expressing a climate of festive joy and a paean to lightheartedness. It represents an idealized vision of natural and primitive life, far from the ideals of dissolute living often associated with satyrs and fauns. Here, it embodies a domestic and protective dimension, elevating the mythological creature to a symbol of natural virtue and family stability.

The work was probably intended for humanist circles, where the theme of “life according to nature” was the subject of philosophical debate, contrasting the purity of natural instincts with the corruption of social conventions.

The analysis of the painting allows us to place its execution within the Northern Italian school, executed by an artist from the Venetian area active between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, and in particular heir to the school of Pietro Liberi (Padua 1605-Venice 1687), who had always been interested in themes linked to myth.

Among the major exponents of Baroque art in Italy, a capable painter who was a disciple of Padovanino and the father of another important painter and imitator, Marco Liberi.

Liberi created important fresco cycles, as well as altarpieces and numerous secular easel paintings; the latter are particularly similar to the one in question and are highly sought after and appreciated by contemporary collectors for their elegantly sensual and erotic themes.

Its formal elegance and pictorial softness are enhanced in mythological scenes like ours, characterised by sensual and classicising nudes.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The work is sold complete with a pleasant gold frame and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and guarantee.

We take care of and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers.

It is also possible to see the painting in the gallery in Riva del Garda, we will be happy to welcome you to show you our collection of works.

In case of purchase of the work by non-Italian customers it will be necessary to obtain an export permit which requires approximately 10/20 days, our gallery will take care of the entire phase until obtaining it. All costs of this procedure are included.

Contact us, without obligation, for any additional information.

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