19th century Italian oil painting of a lady reading by Reggianini

This exquisite oil painting is by Vittorio Reggianini (1858–1938), a celebrated Italian artist renowned for his historical genre scenes depicting 18th-century life. Reggianini specialized in the ‘Silks and Satins School’ style, earning acclaim alongside contemporaries like Arturo Ricci (1854–1919).

The artwork portrays a cheerful young woman reclining on a settee, engrossed in a book. Her relaxed posture and serene smile capture a carefree moment, reflecting a popular leisure activity of the 18th and 19th centuries. She is dressed in a stunning pastel green satin gown adorned with lace detailing on the collar, sleeves, and hem. Her cream-coloured shoes with bow accents and a pearl hair accessory add sophistication and elegance to her ensemble.

The opulent interior surrounding the figure is filled with historical objects, including a Rococo-style console table with scrolling legs and a marble top, as well as a navy porcelain vase adorned with floral patterns. Beside her, a porcelain cup and saucer rest on the table, suggesting the pleasure of tea accompanies her reading. The walls are lined with deep red floral silk wallpaper, matching the upholstery of the seat. An emerald cushion provides a touch of comfort while adding a striking contrast to the rich palette of the room.

Reggianini’s exceptional skill is evident in his meticulous rendering of textiles like satin and silk. The smooth folds of the woman’s gown seem tangible, as does the silky texture of the wallpaper behind her, enhancing the painting’s remarkable lifelike quality.

Presented in a carved giltwood frame, the canvas is signed ‘VReggianini’ in the lower left corner.

This vibrant and high-quality artwork, with its captivating subject and masterful execution, would make an exceptional addition to any fine art collection.

Canvas: Height 50cm, width 40cm
Frame: Height 69cm, width 58cm, depth 7cm