An exquisite portrait of a boy by Italian artist, Adriano Bonifazi (1858-1914). It’s a typically idealised, almost cherubic, depiction by this well-known portraitist.

Bonifazi worked in Capri and Rome and often produced ‘picture perfect’ portraits which idealised their subjects. Many of these were created as pairs - usually a boy and girl dressed in rustic clothing.

We love this piece for its extraordinary detail and charm. It’s also interesting to note the striking light blue background, which evokes thoughts of a bright Mediterranean sky.

The portrait is signed in the top left, inscribed in the top right and housed within its original gilt frame.

Medium: Oil on board
Overall size: 15½” x 17½” / 40cm x 44cm
Year of creation: 1877
Provenance: England
Condition: Craquelure. A few marks around the edges. Frame with some age-related wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £13,000 achieved for ‘Vanity’ at Christie’s in 1875.