Gaetano Chierici (Italian, 1838-1920)

Chierici can be considered the most important Italian genre painter of his day, and the first to find popular success outside of his own country, notably in England and Austria. His scenes imbued with pictorial realism, usually centred on children and are characterised by a technique which renders objects in almost photographic detail. Protagonists are children, peasants and animals to promote the sincere family values.

The present painting is a variant of Chierici's composition titled `Dispiacenze Infantili’ (Reggio Emilia, Palazzo Magnani, Gaetano Chierici 1838-1920. Mostra Antologica, 15 February-31 March 1986, no. 90).