Domenico Morelli (1823–1901) Oil on Canvas Portrait of Italian Zouave Soldier

Domenico Morelli, 1823-1901, considered one of the most important 19th-century Neapolitan Italian painters. His career started at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Naples in 1836 and by 1868 Morelli became a professor of painting at the Royal Academy of Fine Art s in Napels.

 

He painting career starts as a Realist with his paintings drawing inspiration from the Romantics and images of the Middle Ages. By the time he becomes a professor at the Royal Academy, his paintings start to incorporate images and inspiration from Mysticism, Religious imagery and the Orientalists art movement. It is during this point of his life; Morrelli’s art shows Turkish, Arab and lore of the Egypt’s past imagery.

 

When Morelli dies in 1901, his estate and art is given to the government of Italy. His art has graced many museums and collection through the years and with the increased interest in the Orientalist and their styles this piece by Morelli is indicative of this growing taste. When this estate came to me, imagine my surprise in seeing this portrait of a Italian Zouave soldier. The painting shows a commanding presence of the soldier in his dress blue uniform and iconic Red Fez.

 

The signature located on the lower right is done in brighter red than in the fez, giving his signature prominence to the painting.

 

The painting is approximately 24 inches x 17 3/4 inches and the frame is 31 inches x 24 inches. The painting needs to cleaned and re-stretched which I can have done by my conservator. I can give you a detailed quote on the cleaning and restoration upon request.

 

I am happy to have Sturgis Antiques handling this prominent artist and will be happy to answer any and all questions about this painting.

 

Please inquire for price.

 

Thank you very much and thank you for looking.