Spoleto, Da Sud by Mario MIcossi

This is a spectacular etching and aquatint by Italian modernist artist Mario Micossi. Micossi is best known for his etchings depicting Italian landmarks. This piece is titled Spoleto, Da Sud (Spoleto from the south). It depicts the Italian city of Spoleto from a distance. The vanishing point of the perspective converges on a castle, the Rocca Albornoziana which dominates the city. A Roman aqueduct is visible to the right and blue mountains serve as a backdrop to the scene. In addition to the rich blue and green inks, Micossi uses his trademark embossing technique to give additional depth and surface to the image. This is one of the best examples of his work and presents Micossi at the zenith of Italian modernism. The plate size is 7.5 x 23 inches. It is signed Micossi lower right in pencil. The title is lower center and the edition, 77/80 is in pencil lower left. The piece is archivally framed and matted (framed size 16.25 x 32.75 inches). While not examined out of the frame, the image and margins appear to be in pristine condition. There are no visible tears, paper loss, fading, toning, foxing, or staining. It is crisply struck with excellent embossing and inking. A stunning example of Micossi's work.

Mario Micossi (1926-2005) is well known Italian modernist who favors the etching medium—specifically aquatint often augmented with embossing. He studied art at the Academy of Fine Arts in Rome and the Udine Lyceum. He spent some time in the United States, but returned in Italy in the mid-1950s settling in Artegna, Italy. He loves the architecture of his native country and most of his work depicts famous Italian landmarks. His technique is very interesting in that he uses unusual ink colors intensely printed to define the image. While the image is realistic, the colors add an abstract sensibility to the artwork. In addition he embosses the paper to create a three dimensional surface adding depth to the image. He had a unique vision and approach. His work is held by major museums in Europe and the United States and is highly sought after.