Sergio Cirno Bissi (1902-1987) - Ritratto femminile in costume del Settecento

Author

Sergio Cirino Bissi (1902-1987) was an Italian painter and actor. He was born in Carmignano in the province of Prato. Before dedicating himself entirely to painting, he had an internationally renowned career as an actor in the Vaudeville Theatre, traveling to many parts of the world. This cosmopolitan experience influenced his art. Throughout his painting career, Bissi experimented with techniques that lie between Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, with a preference for subjects that evoked the atmosphere and style of the Neoclassical period. His works often include scenes with figures, such as masked balls or depictions of female figures, which evoke a taste for grace and genre settings typical of that historical period.

During his artistic career, he exhibited throughout Italy and his works are part of private international collections, including countries such as France, England, America, and South America. Among his most well-known paintings are titles like 'Market Scene' and 'Scene of Other Times.' His production is known for the use of an impressionistic flair that vividly captures color, form, and texture. He died in Florence in 1987.

Description

"Female Portrait in 18th Century Costume", oil on canvas, 71*61cm with frame, 50*40cm the canvas alone, 1958, signed lower left. The reverse bears the signature and date, with a contemporaneous wooden box frame.

The canvas depicts a profile portrait of a young woman elegantly dressed in 18th-century costume. The figure, set against a palette of browns and earthy tones, wears a dark tricorn hat over her light hair and holds a striking emerald green fan. Her gaze is elusive, and the entire composition unfolds in an intimate, dimly lit environment that envelops the subject in a nearly dreamlike atmosphere.

This painting is a clear example of Sergio Cirino Bissi's fascination with neoclassical subjects, a theme that allowed him to combine historical memory with his modern painterly sensibility. Executed in 1958, the work highlights a clear influence of Giovanni Boldini's painting style, evident in the elegance of the female figures and in the brushwork that suggests rather than fully defines the details. Furthermore, the choice to depict a subject in costume and her emphatic pose testify to his background as a theatrical actor, revealing an interest in staging and scenography that enriches his painterly language. A well-executed painting with a pleasing aesthetic impact.

Condition Report

The overall condition is good, with the original color palette clearly visible. Minor scattered color drops (see photo) are noted but do not affect the overall visual impression of the artwork. The frame is included as a complimentary item.

Tracked and insured shipment with adequate packaging.