'Fish, Dove and Musical Instrument', Italian School (circa 1940s)

'Fish, Dove and Musical Instrument', gouache on paper, from the Italian School of artists (circa 1940s). Surely this very attractive piece was inspired by Georges Braque (1882-1963) and Juan Gris' (1887-1927) cubist style, not to forget the clear influence of the works of Pablo Picasso (1881-1973). Discovered in North Central Italy, this charming work takes a page out of the book of the iconic artists mentioned above by viewing objects from various perspectives through colour, line and even texture. Braque also stencilled letters onto paintings, blended pigments with sand and copied wood grain to achieve great levels of dimension in his paintings. Although this artwork is virtually finished, there remain some pencil drawing marks not filled with colour. Like the two companion works to this one, the artist seems to have chosen to leave the final work 'unfinished'. Or, perhaps the artist is simply asking the viewer to imagine colour in the unfinished parts? The inspiration from Braque meant that this artist was determined to break imagery into dissected parts. Although the dove and fish are mostly intact, some of the shapes in this series of paintings seem to have been pulled apart to move them around the canvas or paper as if shuffling a deck of cards. It is an artwork with subtle colour and vibrancy while at the same time revealing its characterful, vintage history. The artwork is in fair-to-good overall condition with a new frame and precious, non-reflective glass. It shows some minor fading and blemishing commensurate with age. Upon request, a video will be provided. Unsigned by the artist. This artwork has two related paintings which we acquired at the same time and that are in a similar style and subject matter, also on sale with this gallery. Their mysterious origins add to their attractiveness and desirability. Please enquire on this platform if all three artworks are desired as a triptych. 

Dimensions with frame:

H 60 cm / 23.6"

W 44 cm / 17.3"

Dimensions without frame:

H 47 cm / 18.5"

W 31.5 cm / 12.4"