Drawing And Watercolor—alessandro Sanquirico—gothic Hall—medieval Architecture—la Scala In Milan

A theatrical set design executed in watercolor by Alessandro Sanquirico for the Teatro alla Scala, depicting a vast Gothic hall featuring monumental doors and richly decorated columns.

The composition features a spectacular medieval architectural setting in which Sanquirico showcases his talent for illusionistic perspectives and dramatic atmospheres. The vertical lines of the columns, the deep openings, and the play of light and shadow reinforce the monumentality of this interior, designed for La Scala’s grand opera productions in the early 19th century.

With its emphasis on historical architecture and effects of depth, this work perfectly illustrates the romantic and theatrical aesthetic that dominated Italian stage design between 1820 and 1832.

Alessandro Sanquirico began his career collaborating with several artists, including Paolo Landriani, Giovanni Pedroni, Giovanni Perego, and Giorgio Fuentes. He studied architecture and perspective under Giuseppe Piermarini, architect of La Scala in Milan.

Sanquirico created more than three hundred productions for La Scala, including several major works from the Italian repertoire. Between 1818 and 1832, he dominated the visual style of Milanese theater both on stage and in the auditorium. He designed the sets for Salvatore Viganò’s ballets as well as for numerous operas by Rossini, Bellini, and Donizetti, including *La gazza ladra*, *Il pirata*, *La sonnambula*, *Norma*, *Anna Bolena*, and *Lucrezia Borgia*.

His sets, blending ancient, medieval, and fantastical architectural elements, contributed to the spectacular renewal of Italian Romantic theater.

Good overall condition. Some slight signs of wear consistent with the work’s age.

21.5 x 24.5 cm

Sold with its certificate of authenticity.