Sebastiano Ricci (1659 - 1734) — Auction
Sebastiano Ricci, an Italian painter, was a significant figure in the late Baroque school of Venice. He moved to Venice at age 12 and was apprenticed to Federico Cervelli. His work took him across Italy and abroad to England and France, where he left his mark with grand decorative paintings and altarpieces that bridged the late Baroque and emerging Rococo styles.
Sebastiano Ricci's style evolved over the years, showing influences from various regions and artists. In Bologna, he was drawn to the Carracci tradition, while in Parma, he absorbed the color sensibilities of Correggio and Parmigianino. His Roman period allowed him to study the works of Baroque decorators, further refining his decorative and coloristic skills. By the time he returned to Venice, Ricci had developed a mature style that incorporated lessons from his travels, particularly from Paolo Veronese.
His works often depicted mythological and religious themes, filled with dynamic compositions and rich color schemes. Notably, his international commissions included decorative schemes for the Royal House of Savoy and significant works in England, where he collaborated with his nephew Marco Ricci. These contributions solidified his reputation across Europe.
Sebastiano Ricci's legacy is seen in his influence on later Venetian painters and his role in transitioning Venetian art from the Baroque to the Rococo. His works remain celebrated for their vibrancy, expressive light, and inventive compositions, holding a prominent place in the collections of major museums worldwide.
For collectors and art enthusiasts, Sebastiano Ricci's works offer a glimpse into a pivotal moment in art history, where the grandeur of the Baroque began to blend with the lighter, more playful elements of the Rococo. His paintings are not only visually stunning but also rich in historical context, reflecting the cross-currents of European art in the early 18th century.
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