Lot Essay
A departure from his more classically-inclined subjects towards a more realistic style, the present work La Riconoscenza (Gratitude) was exhibited, together with it's pendant group Innocenza difesa dalla fedeltà at the Crystal Palace Great Exhibition of 1851. Here the plump young child and the naturalistically-carved spaniel are composed in a cohesive and life-like group which may have been a portrait, but equally may be an idealised subject inspired by Antique prototypes and imbued with a 19th century endearing sentimentality.
Another example of La Riconoscenza was sold in these rooms, 15 July 1993, lot 233.
Another example of La Riconoscenza was sold in these rooms, 15 July 1993, lot 233.