French or Spanish school; 19th century.

French or Spanish school; XIX century.
"Sketch of ceiling".
Oil on canvas.
It presents faults in the pictorial surface.
Measurements: 69,5 x 96 cm.
This oil on canvas seems to be a preliminary sketch for the decoration of a ceiling, probably created in the 19th century. The design presents a symmetrical structure with three main rectangular sections arranged vertically. The upper and lower sections are delimited by octagonal-shaped gilt frames, while the central section is rectangular in shape. These main areas are mostly empty, with backgrounds of soft, worn tones, as if prepared for future details or additional scenes.
The frame surrounding each section is elaborately ornamented with rich and detailed ornamentation, including stylized vegetal motifs, arabesques and gilded details that stand out against a dark background. The inner edges of the frames feature small decorative panels in reddish tones, with what appear to be classical figures or statues in relief, alluding to the neoclassical tradition of the period.
At the bottom of the design, within the octagonal frame, is a scene with a seated female figure. This figure appears to be dressed in a classical tunic, holding some object, and could represent a muse, deity, or allegorical figure, in keeping with the decorative styles of 19th century neoclassicism.
Overall, this sketch reflects a meticulous ornamental style and the influence of classical art on 19th century architectural decoration. The composition suggests that it was intended for a formal or ceremonial space, such as a drawing room or library, where ceiling frescoes were common to add grandeur and sophistication to the environment.