Lucia Casalini Torelli, Portrait of the Italian Noble Family of Zanardi, 1740, Oil on Canvas

This museum-quality Old Master oil on canvas formal portrait painting, depicting the family of Count Zanardi, is signed by the female painter Lucia Casalini Torelli. It is published in a book dedicated to Casalini Torelli’s workshop and academy. This palatial masterpiece artwork comes directly from the ancient Villa Maraini Guerrieri - Palidano di Gonzaga (Mantua), a historic Italian heritage building owned by the descendants of the family portrayed for more than two centuries until its sale in 1998. The painting dates to approximately 1740, exhibiting Lucia Casalini Torelli's skill in formal family portraiture, where individuals are introduced according to their social roles. The composition places the noble family under a loggia, overlooking a park, with a red cloth draped on one side. The father proudly stands, holding the eldest son's hand, symbolizing the lineage. The mother is seated in an elegant gold and green brocade dress, with her children nearby. The original canvas shows no invasive restoration, maintaining its patina and bright, saturated colors. The painting is stable, with professional provenance and clear markings. It remains significant due to its artist, origin, and exceptional conservation. Dimensions: Height 240 cm, Width 217 cm. Signed lower-left: “Casalini Torelli Fece.” Literature reference is Professor I. Graziani’s book 'La bottega dei Torelli' (2005).