Boats On The Lagoon, By Luigi Querena

Luigi Querena (1824-1887)
Sailboats in the Venetian lagoon
Oil on paper mounted on wood, signed

Venetian marine by Luigi Querena, depicting several sailboats moored in the calm waters of the Venetian lagoon. In the foreground, a large boat unfurls its characteristic ochre sail, which stands out against the luminous sky. Around it bustle several sailors aboard small boats, while on the horizon loom the distant silhouettes of Venice and its campaniles.

Acknowledged specialist in views of Venice and its lagoon, Luigi Querena belongs to the great tradition of 19thᵉ century Venetian painting. His works are captivating for their descriptive precision, the finesse of their execution and their remarkable mastery of light effects on water. In this small-format composition, the artist recreates the peaceful atmosphere of the lagoon, enlivened by the daily life of sailors and fishermen.

Beautiful antique wood and gilded stucco frame decorated with foliage and scrolls, which particularly enhances the panel's oval format.

Very good overall condition, slight wear and usage restorations to the frame.

Luigi Querena (Venice, 1824-1887) was an Italian painter from a family of Venetian artists. Son of painter Francesco Querena, he specialized in seascapes, lagoon scenes and views of Venice. His paintings bear witness to a deep knowledge of the Venetian maritime world and a marked taste for atmospheric effects and the play of light on water. His works are sought after today by connoisseurs of Italian painting of the XIXᵉ century and feature in numerous private collections.