Large ancient architectural painting in tempera on canvas from the 18th century.

Tempera on canvas. This work is related to the work of Pietro Paltronieri, known as Mirandolese (from Mirandola in Emilia-Romagna). In 18th century Bologna, the taste for landscapes with ruins was very widespread: there was a significant production of canvases in which architectural capricci, manipulated in classical styles, were inserted into landscapes and rural or coastal views, expressing a unique decorative sensitivity inspired by theatre. Collaboration between figure painters and set designers was also common. Among them was Pietro Paltronieri, known as Mirandolese, who exerted a sort of dominance over his colleagues. Paltronieri worked in Bologna, and this work comes from a private collection in that city. It depicts a vast complex of architectural ruins with a crenellated palace flanked by towers and, in the foreground, a large loggia above a funerary monument, at the foot of which a kneeling figure can be distinguished. Other figures are perceptible in the background, but are currently not visible. It is ideal as a backdrop for a theatrical performance or, at the very least, as wall decoration in a private setting intended for public relations. The work, previously restored and re-canvas, unfortunately currently shows several diffuse losses of pictorial material. It is presented in an old frame.