18 - Pietro Bardellino (Naples, 1732–1806), attributed to

Pietro Bardellino (Naples, 1732–1806), attributed to Shepherds Preparing Ricotta Dimensions: 103 x 155 cm Dimensions: 115 x 168 cm with frame Oil on canvas br />Private collection Fair condition Original canvas Signs of aging and wear in some areas. Below is an assessment by Prof. Stefano Causa Undoubtedly created as door-surmounts, these two paintings—which are in need of restoration—are typical examples of the Neapolitan Baroque scene as it was coming to a close. Other versions exist, though of varying quality. Stylistically, the two works in question can be attributed to Pietro Bardellino, one of the most refined and independent followers of Francesco De Mura (1693–1782). The master was so enthusiastic about him that he entrusted him with work on both large-scale decorations and interior paintings. *La Tarante* is a literal replica of a prototype by De Mura, known in other versions that have appeared on the market with various attributions (from Paolo De Majo to Bardellino himself). As for the scene depicting the preparation of ricotta, there is a prototype—part of a series of related rural scenes attributed to De Mura or, more likely, to Bardellino— and now on view in the collections of the National Museum of Basilicata, reorganized in the halls of Palazzo Lanfranchi in Matera by Stefano Causa (2024), of Basilicata, reorganized in the halls of Palazzo Lanfranchi in Matera by Stefano Causa (2024).