18th Century Engraving, “a Concert Of Birds”.

Painted by Mario Di Fiori and engraved by Richard Earlom, this 18th century engraving is dated 1778, the painting from which it is inspired belonged to Sir Robert Walpole, Prime Minister of Georges II and avid collector, his three sons criss-crossed Italy and the France in search of works of art, he had Houghton Hall built in order to preserve his prestigious collection. Richard Earlom 1743-1822 is an English engraver considered to be one of the best specialists in the mezzotint technique. Mario Di Fiori of his real name Mario Nuzzi 1603-1673 is an Italian painter specializing in floral compositions and still lifes, his famous "Bird Concert", different from his usual production, represents with virtuosity and realism many birds perched on branches and forming a Choir around an owl acting as leader. A copy of this engraving is kept in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. This work is presented in an 18th century molded, gilded and black lacquered frame. Dimensions of the frame 69 cm x 86.5 cm. Dimensions View 40.5 cm x 57 cm.