Veniero Canevari (1926-1988) - Pretini e Suorine

Pair of Original Paintings by Veniero Canevari (1926-1988) - Oil on Panel (35x44 cm)

Pair of original oil-on-panel paintings by the famous Italian artist Veniero Canevari (1926–1988).
The two works belong to the most iconic, beloved and sought-after thread of his production: the “little priests” and the “little nuns.” With his unmistakable ironic and surrealist style, Canevari depicts religious figures with elongated, elegant silhouettes, placing them in everyday or paradoxical situations, granting the viewer a refined humor and a subtle, good-natured satire.
From a compositional point of view, the artist makes masterful use of flat color fields. The minimalist backgrounds — featuring clear blue skies and essential landscapes — serve as a perfect stage to highlight the sharp and fascinating chromatic contrast with the black and red of the clerical robes.
Details:
• Author: Veniero Canevari (Farnese 1926 – Rome 1988).
• Technique: Oil on panel (the artist’s preferred and typical technique).
• Subjects: Clerical figures ("little priests/little nuns") in ironic/surreal scenes.
• Dimensions: 35 x 44 cm (each painting).
• Frame: black frame included
• Signature: Both works are signed by the author on the bottom.
Artist Biography:
Born in Farnese in 1926 and based in Rome, Veniero Canevari was a son of artists (his father was painter and sculptor Angelo Canevari). He stood out in the Italian art scene of the 20th century as a painter and illustrator with an unmistakable style. His fame is inseparably linked to his depictions of clergy (religious figures), painted in fairytale, playful, or surreal contexts. His works, capable of uniting a sense of visual peace with biting irony, are today in numerous private collections in Italy and abroad, and his market is supported by a constant collecting interest.
Prices and Market Value:
Canevari’s works maintain a lively market, especially for the cycle of the “little priests” and “little nuns.” Prices vary based on size and subject appeal. For oil on panel in this specific format, individual works reach figures between €300 and €500, while in art gallery settings, retail prices are higher. Since this is a paired pair (same dimensions and the same line), the overall value is strengthened.
Conditions and Shipping:
The panels are in excellent condition. The pair will be packed with impact-protective materials. Shipping via international express courier with online tracking code.