(Rome 1603–1673)
Daffodils, Anemones, Tulips, Little Roses, Columbines, Bluebells, Carnations in a Blue Vase Decorated in an Antique Style,
oil on canvas, 50 x 35.6 cm, framed

Literature:
Flora Romana. Fiori e cultura nell’arte di Mario de‘ Fiori (1603–1673), published by Francesco Solinas, Rome 2010, p. 151, no. 19

Exhibited:
Flora Romana. Fiori e cultura nell’arte di Mario de‘ Fiori (1603–1673), Tivoli, 26 May – 3 October 2010, no. 19

The present painting with its carefully depicted flowers was executed with the extensive use of the precious and expensive pigment, ultramarine. This would suggest the painting was produced for an important client. The vase’s decoration, with Venus and other relief-like figures in an ancient setting, appear to originate from the same hand as the flowers. The vase of flowers is set on a wooden console and was most probably executed by Nuzzi during his artistic maturity. A date of ca. 1640 has been suggested for the present composition (see Literature).

The blossoms in the foreground are directly illuminated by a ray of light, leaving the remainder of the floral composition in half-shadow thereby lending the painting greater depth. The exact reproduction of the details of the corolla, petals, pistils, stalks and leaves, and the depiction of the already faded roses in the foreground attest to the artist’s great proficiency.

Mario Nuzzi, known as Mario de’ Fiori, was one of the best-known and most sought-after painters of still lifes of flowers in 17th century Rome. His style was influenced by Tommaso Salini, who in turn was a follower of Caravaggio. Mario Nuzzi’s preference for dark backgrounds followed the Caravaggist tradition. His paintings are distinguished by his most meticulous observation of flowers, reproduced using special lighting which are apparent here in the present compostion.

Additional literature:
G. Bocchi / U. Bocchi, Pittori di Natura Morta a Roma. Artisti Italiani 1630–1750, fig. FM. 12, p. 217 (as Francesco Mantovano (Mantua ? documented in Venice from 1636–1644 and from 1660–1663))