Francesco Zuccarelli (1702-1788), Pair of paintings by Francesco Zuccarelli (1702-1788)

. 55 x 73 cm, Oil on canvas

1)Landscape with a Shepherd Family by a Well
2) Landscape with Shepherds by the River
Zuccarelli is one of the most important figures among the landscape painters of mid-18th-century Venice. His time in London from 1742 to 1752 preceded his key role as one of the founding members of the Royal Academy of Arts in 1768. He maintained consistent involvement in the institution's exhibitions, which peaked in his election as president of the Accademia di belle arti di Venezia in 1771.
A shepherd accompanied by cows and sheep, converses with his young wife by a well. Positioned in the foreground, the wife leans towards a child while carrying a basket and jug, likely containing food for her husband. The composition is framed by a forest in the left background and an ancient tower in the land to the right.

2) In this composition, Zuccarelli strategically arranges the figures to the right and left of the center. On the right lies a woman with her son and both facing towards the shepherd on horseback, who is depicted from behind. The painter has placed a tree stump as a center element, behind which a dog is barking at the woman and boy. Meanwhile, a river flows through the middle distance, and in the background, a village settled among hills features a prominent church tower at its center. The scene is further enriched by a group of trees on the right.
Zuccarelli's deft application of a brisk, creamy painting style effectively accentuates the rococo character of the artwork. Additionally, pastoral idylls such as this one were enjoyed widespread popularity during the 18th century. However Zuccarelli's mastery of representing this genre is unparalleled in Italian painting.
Certificate written by Dr. Dario Succi. 55 x 73 cm, Oil on canvas