'Carnival's Afterglow' by S.W. (1939)

'Carnival's Afterglow', gouache on art paper, by S.W. (1939). A real find, this artwork was discovered in the South of France at an estate sale. The candle in the middle of the work burned sensuously all night; the two masks are looking back at those who wore them from their perch on the dressing table. The Venice Carnevale has worldwide renown. What is not widely known is that masks were so used and abused by Venetian gamblers and prostitutes seeking anonymity that, in the 18th century, they were banned outside carnival time. Notwithstanding this interesting fact, Venice remains the world's top destination for romance which blooms at the carnival balls. Doing their duty for love, the chief facilitators of illicit Venetian liaisons were the gondoliers, who provided door-to-door transport with passengers secreted in a tented cabin. Which leads back to the depiction in this painting. One can only imagine what transpired that evening. The artist cleverly uses the image painted here to give the viewer just a hint. The work is in fair vintage condition commensurate with its age and the medium used. There is evident cracking in the lower left hand of the painting which has been sealed and preserved with the new frame and glazing work. This does not affect the overall impression of the work for the viewer. The painting has been priced accordingly. The artwork is initialed: 'S.W. 39'. Upon request, a video clip of the work may be provided for added context.

Dimensions with frame:

H 39 cm (15.3")

W 46 cm (18.1")

Dimensions without frame:

H 23.5 cm (9.2")

W 31 cm (12.2")