(Milan 1613/16–1681 Bologna)
Pomegranates on a dish, peaches in a basket, figs and plums and grapes on a table,
oil on canvas, 128 x 160 cm, framed

Provenance:
with Gustavo Rol, Turin;
sale, Sotheby’s, New York, 22 May 2018, lot 54;
where acquired by the present owner

The present composition depicts a table covered by a carpet with a white tablecloth on top, on which various fruits have been arranged some in containers with others placed elegantly in small groups. In the background and at the centre of the composition there is an embellished vase with a vermilion cloth behind it which acts as a backdrop. The drape breaks the background’s chromatic scheme and is connected to the fruits in the foreground through colour. On the left, there is an architectural setting behind a pedestalled silver platter displaying pieces of torrone.

The present painting is typical of Cittadini’s painting and artistic conception. The fruit, foliage, sweets and carpets depicted have a vital presence in the painting and are not considered to be empty or abstract decoration with only a marginal role. Instead, the individual objects that he represents are the protagonists of his creations, and as such, they are shown with all of their individuality. Their delicate shadows are highlighted by a cold, analytical light, and their tactile qualities can be seen in the folding of the fabric and the softness of the peaches.