Pair Of Floral Still Lifes, Neapolitan School, Oil On Canvas, 18th Century

Provenance
Pair of large decorative paintings belonging to the Neapolitan school of the 18th century, devoted to the subject of floral still life. Through their scale, chromatic richness and staged arrangement, these works relate to the southern Italian tradition of flower paintings intended for refined interiors and decorative ensembles.

Description
The two oils were conceived as pendants. Each composition presents an abundant display of flowers arranged in vases, jardinières and vessels, combined with garden, terrace and landscape elements. The bouquets include roses, carnations, dahlias or chrysanthemums, together with white, red, pink, yellow and blue blossoms, painted with a strong sense of volume and contrast. The floral masses are arranged on several planes, with flowers brought forward into the light and others partially absorbed into the shadow, creating a highly decorative depth.

The first painting is arranged around a central vase, a terracotta pot and a small overturned blue-and-white vessel, with scattered flowers in the foreground. The second has a more architectural construction, with urns, plinths and stone steps supporting the bouquets. The pair is notable for its deep palette, dominated by dark backgrounds, atmospheric blue-green tones, strong reds and luminous whites. The blackened wooden frames, enriched with an inner gilt leafy moulding, enhance the period character and decorative presence of the ensemble.

Technique and materials
Oil on canvas. Blackened wooden frames with raised gilt inner decoration. The painting shows a dense handling, with visible impasto in the flowers and a softer treatment in the backgrounds and foliage.

Dating
18th century, Neapolitan school, based on the subject, theatrical composition, depth of the backgrounds and decorative treatment of the floral arrangements.

Condition
Condition consistent with age. Craquelure, surface patina, wear and small losses visible on the frames and gilding. The pair retains a strong decorative presence and an authentic period appearance.

Usage and destination
This pair is suitable for a classical interior, gallery, salon or dining room. The large format and pendant composition allow for a symmetrical display above a console, sideboard or on a principal wall.

Dimensions
height - 83 cm
width - 115 cm