The work “Forma e ventaglio” by Carlo Corsi reveals the most intimate and contemplative side of the Bolognese artist, one of the significant figures of early twentieth-century Italian painting. In this composition, the female figure is immersed in a suspended atmosphere, created through a masterful balance of light, shadow, and colour. The face, only partially defined and almost absorbed into the background, is not described analytically; instead, it emerges through suggestion, reflecting a pictorial approach that privileges evocation over detail.
The fan, placed prominently in the foreground, becomes one of the central elements of the composition. On the one hand, it introduces a reference to femininity and the private sphere; on the other, through its open and luminous form, it guides the viewer’s gaze toward the figure while creating a refined contrast with the darker tones of the surrounding space. Furthermore, the yellow vibrations of the background lend depth to the scene, suggesting an artificial, urban, almost nocturnal light.
Known for a painting style that is both balanced and intensely chromatic, Corsi succeeds here in combining figurative tradition with a modern sensibility. The broad, textured brushwork constructs the forms without rigidly defining them, while the warm, earthy colours give the image a personal and introspective character.
Overall, “Forma e ventaglio” is an effective example of Carlo Corsi’s ability to transform an everyday subject into a poetic and silent vision, where figure, light, and colour engage in a dialogue of remarkable subtlety and depth.
Description: Oil on cardboard laid down on panel, signed lower right, H cm 75×52 – with frame H cm 91×68.
Notes: Work accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity on photograph issued by Galleria La Nuova Loggia, Bologna, with authentication inscription signed by Elisa Corsi and inventory number 115.
Exhibitions: “Carlo Corsi”, retrospective exhibition dedicated to the artist at Palazzo dei Diamanti, Ferrara, October–December 1985; “I Maestri bolognesi alle grandi mostre della secessione romana 1913–1916”, Republic of San Marino, June–September 2002.
Publications: Catalogue of the retrospective exhibition dedicated to the artist at Palazzo dei Diamanti, Ferrara, edited by F. Solmi with an introduction by G. C. Argan, Bologna, Ed. Due Torri, 1985, pl. 27.
Provenance: Galleria La Loggia, Bologna; Important Private Collection, Bologna.
Hammer Price: € 6.875,00
Auction 79 – February 10th 2025 – Modern and Contemporary Art
All works by Carlo Corsi presented at auction
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