“Tempio”, oil on railway sleeper by Luca Pignatelli, 2003.

Luca Pignatelli (1962), “Tempio”, 2003.

This painting by Luca Pignatelli, entitled “Tempio”, depicts a classical architectural structure, most likely inspired by an ancient temple, and is presented through a restrained palette dominated by brown and grey tones. Furthermore, the surface of the bâche, with its seams and irregularities, becomes an integral part of the composition, introducing a material contrast that characterises much of Pignatelli’s work. As a result, the painting establishes a dialogue between a historical image and an industrial support, bringing past and present into direct relationship.

The artist, active on the Italian art scene since the 1990s, frequently works with archaeological, military, and architectural imagery selected for its symbolic significance. In this case, the perspective of the colonnade guides the viewer’s gaze towards the centre, while areas of light emphasise specific parts of the structure. At the same time, the visible seams reinforce the constructed nature of the image.

In conclusion, “Tempio” offers a significant example of Luca Pignatelli’s practice, based on the interplay between historical iconography and contemporary materials.

Description: Oil on bâche, bearing on the reverse the artist’s signature, title, date, and the inscription “Milano”, H cm 60×90 – with frame H cm 67×97.
Provenance: important private collection – Bologna.

Hammer Price: € 8.125,00

Auction 76 – November 14th 2024 – Contemporary Art

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