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Maker Once Known
Two Architectural Capricci Deux caprices architecturaux
1760 fin 18e siècle

These two capricci, or fantasy scenes, with arched tops were painted to hang as a pendant pair, possibly on either side of a door or window. Each shows a prominent archway next to a canal, numerous figures going about their day, small boats and merchant ships, and buildings along the water’s edge. The scenes open toward each other but without forming a continuous image. The right panel shows several plain-clothed figures, clearly of a lower social status, including a beggar receiving alms from a woman carrying a basket. They stand before an imposing double archway connected to a wall at the right and enhanced with Corinthian columns. Everyday bustle and labour is emphasized, as workers are shown loading and manning skiffs while ships sail by in the distance. A cluster of houses rises on the other side of the canal, through the archway.

Maker Once Known
Italian Italian
Two Architectural Capricci Deux caprices architecturaux
1760 fin 18e siècle
Oil on canvas Huile sur toile
height / width: 14.20 x 98.30 cm; 5.59 x 38.70 in.
Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Alfred Bader, 1980 Don de Dr et Mme Alfred Bader, 1980
23-039.02

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