Seduction

Born in Modena in 1858, Vittorio Reggianini trained at the local art academy alongside Gaetano Bellei and Eugenio Zamphighi. Later promoted to professor of the same academy, he continued to participate in shows winning praise from his local supporters. In 1885, he moved to Florence, and it was during this period, with backing from his dealer Pisani, that the artist established a reputation for himself on the international art market. The artist's choice of subject matter and style dramatically shifted from the local historical realism that dominated his early work to the new continental taste for more fanciful paintings which recreated the luxuriant lifestyles and the opulent decor of the 18th Century.

In the present composition, a subtle flirtation unfolds between an elegantly dressed suitor and the young lady in pink coyly holding a fan. The brilliant tonalities of Reggianini's choice of color as well as his masterful brushwork renders the rich and satiny texture of the ladies' dresses. The finely detailed Rococo style sitting room allows the artist to show off his sensitivity in recreating a historically accurate interior complete with satin curtains, damask wall coverings and fine French furniture.