From Morandi to Balla, Magnelli and Severini: why did still-life painting flourish in early 20th-century Italy?
Staff | Christie’s | 12th May 2023
Still life painting is often associated with formalism because visual qualities predominate over narrative. The genre was especially popular in the Dutch renaissance. Perhaps sparked by Cezanne, it was again prominent in 20th century Italian art and Morandi was its undoubted star. Although prepared as an auction guide, this piece neatly summarises a seldom featured area of Italian art.