Self-Portrait of the Painter Antonio Maria Aspettati (Florence, 1880 - 1949)

Self-Portrait of the Painter Antonio Maria Aspettati (Florence, 1880 - 1949)

Period: 1940s

Oil on panel

Dimensions: H 46 cm x W 41 cm

Signature: Upper right

Frame: Natural wood, original to the period

This painting portrays Antonio Maria Aspettati in his later years, with voluminous gray hair and pince-nez glasses, a rimless model typical of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The artist depicts himself with a focused and attentive expression, wearing a light blue shirt and a dark tie. The background is painted with swift brushstrokes and earthy tones.

This self-portrait belongs to the lesser-known aspect of Aspettati’s production. He is primarily recognized for his Florentine architectural views and interiors, in which he demonstrated an exceptional mastery of perspective and light effects. In this painting, his approach reveals confident brushwork and a keen attention to physiognomic details.

The painting is in good condition, with its original frame complementing the piece.

Biography of the Artist

Antonio Maria Aspettati was a Florentine painter specializing in architectural views and interiors of churches, palaces, and museums. He stood out for his precise use of perspective and sensitivity to light. Trained at the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, he began exhibiting at a young age and participated in several prestigious exhibitions, including the Mostra del Soldato in Florence and the VII Rome Quadriennale.

In 1922, he took part in the Fiorentina Primaverile, presenting a view of the interior of Santa Trinita  Church. His works are characterized by meticulous spatial depth and carefully studied light effects, confirming his expertise in architectural painting.

Beyond his renowned architectural interiors, Aspettati also dedicated himself to portraiture, as evidenced by this Self-Portrait, in which he represents himself with striking expressiveness. He was an honorary member of the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence.