Mid-20th Century Carlo Ciappa “Bay of Naples by Moonlight” Signed Oil on Canvas

Details

Description

An atmospheric mid-century Italian oil on canvas by Carlo Ciappa, depicting a moonlit panorama of the Bay of Naples with … Read more An atmospheric mid-century Italian oil on canvas by Carlo Ciappa, depicting a moonlit panorama of the Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius rising in the distance.

Viewed from an elevated hillside above the city, the composition captures the sweeping curve of the Neapolitan coastline illuminated beneath a cloud-filled night sky. Hundreds of tiny points of warm light trace the city and shoreline, while their reflections descend into the calm waters of the bay. Small sailboats appear along the waterfront, and a solitary Mediterranean umbrella pine anchors the foreground.

Ciappa's restrained palette of blue-gray, charcoal, deep green and silvery aqua gives the work a particularly atmospheric quality. The moon and its reflection across the water provide the primary illumination, contrasted beautifully by the warmer lights of Naples.

The painting is executed in oil on canvas and signed “Ciappa” at the lower left.

Carlo Ciappa is documented for his Italian coastal landscapes and views of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Comparable works depicting the Bay of Naples have appeared through established auction houses, including Bonhams Skinner, while Christie's has catalogued other signed oils by the artist.

The painting remains housed in an impressive vintage frame featuring a richly figured burl-style surround, gilt inner liner and ornate gilt-and-black foliate molding. A label on the reverse identifies The Carol Schwartz Gallery, Fine Art and Custom Framing, Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania, providing additional history to its presentation.

Overall dimensions: 37” W × 29” H
Medium: Oil on canvas
Artist: Carlo Ciappa
Origin: Italy
Period: Mid-20th century
Subject: Bay of Naples / Mount Vesuvius
Signature: Signed “Ciappa” lower left
Frame: Vintage burl-style and gilt decorative frame

Condition
Good vintage condition with age-appropriate surface wear. The canvas retains strong color and presents beautifully overall. There are two small punctures/pinholes to the canvas, visible upon close inspection and shown in the accompanying photographs. Additional minor surface marks, scattered age-related wear and light craquelure may be present. Vintage frame shows minor wear consistent with age. Please review all photographs as part of the condition description. See less