Bidspirit auction | Arnaldo Tamburini

Arnaldo Tamburini - Portrait of a Lady in Green Silk with Mandolin – Attributed to Arnaldo Tamburini. A valuable large oil on canvas painting, the work of a master of the 19th-century realist school, identified by the signature as Arnaldo Tamburini (1843-1901) or his close circle. The portrait captures a young gentlewoman in a moment of musical leisure, embodying the ideal of grace and culture of the era. Artistic and Stylistic Analysis: Material Rendering: The most valuable element of the work is the exceptional virtuosity in rendering the emerald green silk of the dress. The iridescent reflections of the fabric, the deep folds, and the sheen of the puffed sleeves finished with white lace demonstrate a very high level of painting technique. Composition: The lady is portrayed seated on a red velvet upholstered chair, with a mandolin in her hands, captured in a pose of studied naturalness. Her upward gaze suggests poetic or musical inspiration. Background and Setting: The scene is set in a palatial interior, hinted at by a fluted column and a dark drapery, classic elements of official portraiture that serve to give depth and tone to the central figure. Frame: The work is presented in a sumptuous coeval gilded wooden frame, richly carved with acanthus leaf motifs and beadings, which enhances its monumental importance. Technical Sheet: Artist: Arnaldo Tamburini (Signature present at the bottom). Technique: Oil on canvas. Subject: Allegorical/musical portrait of a noblewoman. Dimensions: Approximately 107 x 77 cm (with frame). Period: Second half of the 19th century. Condition: Excellent; the paint film is vivid and shows no paint loss or obvious invasive restorations; the frame is intact.