Antonio Ciseri, “prometheus Bound,” Oil On Paper, 19th Century

Antonio Ciseri, “Prometheus Bound,” oil on paper, 19th century

Antonio Ciseri (1821–1891)

Prometheus Bound

Oil painting on paper mounted on canvas

Dimensions:

– Framed: H 64 × W 72 cm

– Paper: H 46 × W 55 cm

Important oil painting on paper applied to wood depicting Prometheus Bound, by Antonio Ciseri, one of the leading figures in 19th-century Italian historical and academic painting. The subject, based on mythology, depicts Prometheus at the moment of divine punishment.

The composition is built on a powerful anatomical structure, revealing Ciseri's profound knowledge of drawing and the study of the classical nude. The modeling of the body, defined by masterful chiaroscuro, expresses physical tension and moral suffering, while the red drapery intensifies the pathos of the scene and creates a vibrant chromatic contrast with the earthy tones of the rocky background.

The work has widespread cracks on the surface of the paper, which are clearly visible and due to the natural fragility of the paper support applied to canvas.

These alterations are to be considered irreversible, as any restoration work would be invasive and would risk compromising the pictorial and historical integrity of the work itself.

Set in a finely carved gilded frame, the work maintains a strong visual presence and testifies to the high quality of Ciseri's production.