| The paintings of Marcantonio Francheschini have an academic and idealist strain, even for a member of the Bolognese School of Painting. The sparse figures are severely arranged and often porcelain in features. This painting is no exception. A mother and her children are in the mountains. The small child has recently fed and is in a comatose- like sleep resting on her breast. The other children are also seeking some nourishment. There is an air of exhaustion in the face of the mother which is clearly visible even though she is looking behind her. This facial expression is very cleverly captured by the highly competent artist. Paintings of similar subject by Marcantonio Francheschini regularly sell of upwards of £100,000 at auction.
It is a truly impressive piece which would make an impressive addition to any quality collection |