Description
Giuseppe Bernardino Bison (Palmanova 1762 – Milan 1844) – Holy Family.
Pencil and white chalk drawing on paper, in a gilded wooden frame.
Signed lower right: “Bison”.
Giuseppe Bernardino Bison was one of the leading figures of the late 18th-century Venetian art scene, trained in the tradition of academic drawing and capable of interpreting the styles of the late 18th century with a lightness of touch that was entirely his own. Active in Venice, Trieste, and finally Milan, where he died in 1844, he left behind a body of graphic work of high quality, already appreciated by his contemporaries. The sheet depicts a half-length Holy Family: the Madonna, shown in three-quarter profile with her hair gathered up, holds the Child in her arms while a second male figure—identifiable as Saint Joseph—peeks out in the background on the left. The technique—pencil and white chalk on brown-toned prepared paper—is executed with confidence and fluidity, with highlights rendered in short strokes that effectively model the forms. The drawing is an autograph work, as attested by the signature in the lower right corner.
Condition report: The paper support is in good condition. There are some abrasions and general yellowing due to age.
