374 - Franciszek Smuglewicz

Franciszek Smuglewicz 1745-1807 Ancient Scene Adaptation by Marco Carloni Watercolor on paper 53 x 84 cm, with frame 72 x 105.5 cm Franciszek Smuglewicz is considered one of the leading representatives of Classicism in Poland and Lithuania. His training and his long stay in Rome shaped his intense engagement with ancient art and mythological themes. Together with Vincenzo Brenna, he produced drawings based on ancient Roman wall paintings, which Marco Carloni then translated into prints for the illustrated volume *Vestigia delle Terme di Tito e loro interne pitture*. The watercolor depicts a multi-figure, classical-style scene within an ornamental frame featuring blue-ground medallions. Against a backdrop of architectural walls, seated, reclining, and standing figures are gathered in a broad composition. On the right, a woman plays the lyre, while her neighbor turns to watch her intently. The instrument, associated with Apollo, generally refers to music and artistic pursuits without unambiguously identifying a specific mythological figure here. Another woman wearing a head covering holds a bowl over a water basin; her action could be interpreted as drawing water or as a ritual libation. To the left of her sits a bare-chested man, his gaze directed toward the left side of the picture. Immediately behind him is a kline covered with green blankets. Seated on it is a half-naked woman in a blue robe, supporting a figure dressed entirely in white and wearing a head covering. Further to the left, a half-naked woman leans against a column. A veiled figure at the outer left edge of the picture also appears to be engaged in an activity involving a vessel and is accompanied by two smaller figures. The combination of music, reclining figures, and possible ritual acts suggests a social or religious gathering. The architectural backdrop, the antique-style robes, and the decorative border reflect the Classicist interest in the figures and forms of ancient wall paintings. Shades of blue and green provide colorful accents within the scene and unite the individual groups into a balanced overall composition.