Ferdinando Sapio (1955) - Borgo

The work, an oil on canvas, depicts a typical alley of a historic village located inland in Campania. The composition is dominated by a stone staircase that rises upward, flanked by ancient buildings with weathered façades, where exposed bricks and worn plaster stand out. The presence of small details such as power lines and a chimney on the roof gives the painting a sense of everyday, "lived-in" reality.
Sapio employs a very material and dynamic technique. The brushstrokes are quick, almost scratched, especially visible in the white areas that simulate the glare of light or the wear on the walls.
The color palette is warm and earthy. Dominant are ochre, burnt sienna, and brown tones, contrasted by touches of pure white that create strong bright accents. The green shutters and the dark door add points of chromatic depth.
The light seems to rain down from above, striking the protruding surfaces and casting shadows on the under-stairs and the recesses. This creates a strong sense of three-dimensionality and atmosphere, almost "dusty" and sunny at the same time.
The work belongs to the Vedutistic Realism tradition. It does not seek photographic perfection, but aims to convey the emotion and the charm of architectural decay. The artist's ability lies in transforming a humble subject (an old alley) into a vibrant composition thanks to the energy of the brushwork.
The gilded and burgundy box frame is coherent with the period and enhances the warm tone of the painting.
Painting dimensions: 30 x 40
Frame dimensions: 48 × 58