Achille Dovera (1838-1895) - Scorcio della vecchia Porta Ticinese e i Navigli a Milano

Subject and Historical Notes:
The painting depicts one of the most famous and fascinating views of the "Milano scomparsa": the ancient medieval postern Porta Ticinese (historically also known as Porta Cicca) overlooking the Navigli Ring. The scene captures the vibrant atmosphere of everyday 19th-century life, animated by numerous passers-by in period clothing, a carriage in motion, and the characteristic clothes drying at the windows that confer intimacy and realism to the composition. On the left one can glimpse the water surface of the Naviglio canal, while in the background a city dome rises.
Iconographic Note: The perspective layout and subject of this composition draw on the celebrated 19th-century iconography of fluvial Milan, whose official models and documentary references are today preserved in the civic collections of the Museum of Milan at Palazzo Morando.
Style and Technique:
The work is executed with an excellent painting technique, characterized by a rapid, impasto brushwork rich in luminous contrasts, typical of the Lombard vedutismo tradition of the late 19th century. The color palette deftly alternates the warm tones of the architectures and terracotta roofs with the plum and evocative hues of the sky.
Technical Details and Condition:
• Author: Achille Dovera (Milan, 1838 – 1895)
• Signature: Clearly signed bottom left "A. Dovera"
• Technique: Oil on plywood
• Dimensions: the frame measures 59x74 cm and the painting 34x49 cm in excellent condition and without marks. It has no protective glass. It is 5.6 cm deep and weighs 2450 grams
• Condition: Excellent overall. The paint layer is intact, stable and preserves a splendid chromatic brilliance.
• Included in the lot: The painting is presented complete with its elegant period frame with fabric matting (shown in the photo).
A work of notable historical and collecting value, ideal for lovers of 19th-century genre painting and the historical views of the great Italian cities.