Domenico Maggiotto (Venice 1712-1794)

These paintings form two of a series of twelve pictures based on moralistic themes, sometimes called the Capricci fiamminghi, and perhaps emulating Netherlandish series illustrating Dutch and Flemish proverbs. The complete series is now lost, but is known from engravings by the Venetian engraver Antonio Cappellan (c. 1740-after 1783). The other pictures emblematised Harmony (a couple making music), Education (a sculptor teaching a pupil), The Spread of Customs (Europeans drinking coffee), Felicity (a boy with a basket of apples), and other subjects.