Italian school (XX) - Italian Coast with Fishing Boats

Italian School (20th Century) – Mediterranean Coastal Scene with Fishing Boats – Signed Oil on Canvas

An atmospheric original oil on canvas depicting a sunlit Mediterranean coastline, with colourful fishing boats resting against the rocky shore and two figures walking beside the sea. Probably dating from the mid-20th century, the work is executed with bold impasto and expressive palette-knife technique, with striking turquoise, red and orange accents against warm creams and ochres. Signed in paint lower right; the artist has not been conclusively identified. Artwork dimensions approximately 29 × 40 cm (height × width); overall framed dimensions approximately 47 × 58 cm.

The composition leads beautifully from the two small figures across the brightly painted boats and heavily textured rocks towards the coastal buildings beyond. Thick ridges and layers of oil give the surface an almost sculptural quality and considerable presence in changing light. The painting was sourced in Northern Italy, in the area of Venice, and is presented in an attractive vintage gilt frame with a deep red surround that complements the warm Mediterranean palette. No certificate or further provenance documentation accompanies the work.

Condition: Good. The painting itself is in good condition, retaining strong colour, substantial impasto and an attractive painted surface. The red surround shows some age-related staining and discolouration. The vintage gilt frame has age-related rubbing, scratches, edge wear, chips and small losses, with several areas showing evidence of previous repair or touch-up using gold-coloured paint. The artwork will be shipped framed and carefully protected for transport. Despite the age-related wear to its presentation, this remains a highly decorative original coastal painting with wonderful texture, colour and Mediterranean atmosphere.