Pietro Francesco Alberti

The painter and engraver, Pietro Francesco Alberti, belonged to an extensive family of artists from Borgo San Sepolcro. He worked almost exclusively in Rome, where he was a member of the Accademia di San Luca. Bartsch records only one etching by Alberti whereas Nagler attributes to him the eight prints listed under Faccini. Given the stylistic similarities with the work recorded by Bartsch, it seems distinctly plausible that Alberti was the author. The present depiction, which can be seen as an allegory of foolishness, was unquestionably inspired by Flemish prototypes. The print is extremely rare and probably exists in only a few impressions. A very fine impression with a delicate veil of plate tone and wide margins. Minor ageing, otherwise in mint condition.