19th-century Oil On Canvas Painting, Portrait Of A Bourgeois, Artist Giulio Cantalamessa

The work, created by Giulio Cantalamessa (1846–1924), depicts a prominent figure of the Roman bourgeoisie, Francesco Maranelli, born at the end of the 18th century. The subject, likely an archivist or engineer, appears to have been involved in the management of the Roman land registry—an assumption suggested by the document he holds in his hands, which may offer a clue to his professional role.

Giulio Cantalamessa, a cultured artist of post-unification Italy, was not only a painter but also an art critic, museologist, and director of prestigious museum institutions. Born in Ascoli Piceno, he studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Bologna and furthered his training under Antonio Ciseri in Florence. He headed the Galleria Estense in Modena, the Gallerie dell’Accademia in Venice, and finally the Galleria Borghese in Rome, where his approach was noted for its scrupulous respect for the villa’s original furnishings. He was also the first superintendent of the galleries and museums of Rome and Lazio.

The painting is in good overall condition and would benefit from a professional cleaning. A slight tear in the canvas is noted in the last photograph. Traces of woodworm are also visible on the wooden frame.