Simon Quaglio

The theatrical painter, stage designer and lithographer Simon Quaglio was a pupil of his father, Joseph, and his brother, Angelo I. After the death of his brother in 1815, he succeeded to the latter’s post as Hoftheatermaler (painter to the court theatre) in Munich, where his sets were received with enthusiastic admiration. Simon Quaglio also distinguished himself as a painter of architectural subjects, producing a small lithographical œuvre between 1814 and 1826.

Although probably not conceived as a suite to begin with, the present four lithographs, given their choice of theme and identical format, constitute a self-contained unit within the artist’s printed œuvre. They are also the last lithographs Simon Quaglio produced. The prints are distinguished by their refined technical treatment. Quaglio exploits the atmospheric potential of his medium to the full and achieves delicate tonal transitions that further enhance the romantic mood of the portrayals. The refined lighting effects and the clever use of staffage figures betray Simon’s training as a theatrical artist.

Superb, contrasting and nuanced impressions with full margins. In pristine condition. From the Collection of Johann Nepomuk Seiler (1793 Munich – 1876 Kempten), not in Lugt.