Object Description
Set of four watercolours of Orientalist street scenes by Rappini
Italian, Early 20th Century
Paper: Height 34cm, width 23cm
Frame: Height 53cm, width 39cm, depth 3cm
This set of four watercolour paintings is by the Italian artist Vittorio Rappini (1877-1939), known for his expertly rendered Orientalist genre scenes. This quartet from the Mayfair Gallery collection provide charming glimpses into daily Middle Eastern life.
The paintings sit within giltwood frames, with the titles and artist inscribed on the lower edge. The scenes are respectively entitled ‘A Street Scene in Tripoli’, ‘The Water Carriers’, ‘Interior of a Harem’, and ‘A Fruit Seller’. The paintings are populated by various women engaged in daily activities, selling their produce, or waiting for custom. Their brightly coloured garments and headscarves stand out beautifully against the more neutral backdrop.
Smaller figures can be seen walking through the cobbled streets in the background, helping to bring the scenes to life. The Orientalist setting is marked by the distinctive architecture, constructed from pale stone that contrasts wonderfully with the bright blue sky. Each painting includes several exceptionally rendered smaller details that catch the viewer’s eye, such as baskets of fruit or patterned textiles.
Each painting is signed ‘Rappini’ in the lower right-hand corner.
Rendered in beautiful pastel shades, these four watercolours make a fine set for any keen collector of Orientalist works.