Artwork

Landschaft bei Sonnenuntergang

Landschaft bei Sonnenuntergang, by Andrea Locatelli, unspecified, 1700
Landschaft bei Sonnenuntergang, by Andrea Locatelli, unspecified, 1700

Landschaft bei Sonnenuntergang is an unspecified painting by the Barbizon school artist Andrea Locatelli. It dates from 1700 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.

About this work

Overview

Andrea Locatelli’s *Landschaft bei Sonnenuntergang*, dated 1700, presents a twilight landscape that captures a fleeting moment of sunset. The composition centers on a forest clearing where three figures and a dog occupy the foreground, while a distant structure with tall arches and a dome rises on a hill, partially concealed by trees.

Subject & Meaning

The scene juxtaposes human activity with the natural environment: one figure stands beneath a large tree, gesturing upward, another sits on the ground, and a third observes, suggesting contemplation of the fading light. The inclusion of the dog adds a domestic element, while the hidden architecture hints at a narrative beyond the immediate setting.

Technique & Style

Locatelli employs strong chiaroscuro, using deep shadows against illuminated forms to heighten drama. The contrast makes the faces and foliage emerge sharply from a darker background, creating a moody atmosphere typical of his landscape-focused approach.

History & Provenance

Born in Rome in 1695, Locatelli trained initially with his father before studying under marine specialists Monsù Alto and Bernardino Fergioni. Though primarily known for vedute, this work aligns with the landscape tradition later associated with the Barbizon School, reflecting his versatility in genre.

Context

The painting reflects early 18th‑century Italian interest in atmospheric effects and the integration of figures within natural settings. Its emphasis on light and shadow anticipates later developments in landscape painting that would be explored more fully by French artists of the Barbizon movement.

Artist & collection

Artist

Andrea Locatelli

Andrea Locatelli (19 December 1695 – 19 February 1741) was an Italian painter of landscapes (vedute).