Francesco Graziani "Ciccio Napoletano".

FRANCESCO GRAZIANI "CICCIO NAPOLETANO" (Italy, 1626-?).
"Tournament".
Oil on canvas.
Measurements: 23 x 32 cm; 31,5 40,5 cm (frame).
Graziani, popularly known as Ciccio Napoletano, specialized in the subject of battles between knights, reaching in this pictorial genre the high summits of art. In this case the author represents a Tournament. In this painting, Graziani uses a palette of warm and rich colors, applied with quick and energetic brushstrokes that bring dynamism to the scene. The composition is evenly illuminated by a particular light that enhances the volumes of the figures and softens the forms, while the marked features of the characters are highlighted with precise brush strokes.The influence of masters such as Jacques Courtois, known as "il Borgognone", and Salvator Rosa is evident in his work. However, Graziani develops a personal approach characterized by a synthesis of rapid touches and vigorous emphasis. His scenes are full of agitated movements, where the characters are delineated with quick and nervous, almost curling strokes, revitalized by effective light touches. Graziani's style in the representation of tournaments or jousts is distinguished by his ability to capture the intensity and chaos of battle, using pictorial techniques that bring depth and realism to his compositions.

Although little contrasted information survives about Francesco Graziani's education (many sources state that he was a pupil of Borgognone) and his later activity, it is known that he moved from Naples to Rome in the last decades of the 17th century, soon becoming a well-established painter among the city's patrons.