Artwork
Retrato de Santiago Calzadilla

Retrato de Santiago Calzadilla is an unspecified painting by Prilidiano Pueyrredón. It dates from 1859 and is held in the collection of the National Museum of Fine Arts, Argentina.
About this work
If you're interested in learning more about this style of painting, you might want to check out the work of artist Prilidiano Pueyrredón.
This painting shows a man sitting in a chair, holding a horse's head. He is wearing a white jacket, a black vest, and a white shirt with a black bow tie. The background is dark, with some objects that are not clearly visible.
The man's facial expression is serious, and he seems to be looking directly at the viewer. His right hand is resting on his leg, while his left hand holds the horse's head. The horse's head is brown, and it appears to be made of wood or another material.
The painting is quite detailed, with intricate textures and shading. It's a great example of a portrait from the mid-19th century. If you're interested in learning more about this style of painting, you might want to check out the work of artist Prilidiano Pueyrredón.
Overview
Retrato de Santiago Calzadilla is an 1859 painting by Prilidiano Pueyrredón, a pivotal Argentine artist known for his costumbrist emphasis on everyday life. The work is a portrait housed in the National Museum of Fine Arts, Buenos Aires.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Santiago Calzadilla seated, dressed in formal attire (white jacket, black vest, white shirt, and black bow tie), with a serious expression. Notably, he holds a wooden (or similarly rendered) horse's head, an element that may symbolize his profession, interests, or a metaphorical aspect of his character, though the exact significance is not explicitly documented.
Technique & Style
Pueyrredón's technique in this work showcases detailed rendering and intricate textures, coupled with effective shading against a dark, partially obscured background. These elements align with the meticulous observation characteristic of costumbrist art, emphasizing realism in depicting everyday subjects.
History & Provenance
Created in 1859, the painting is part of the National Museum of Fine Arts' collection in Buenos Aires, highlighting its recognition as a significant work in Argentine artistic heritage.
Artist & collection
Artist
Prilidiano Pueyrredón (January 24, 1823 – November 3, 1870) was an Argentine painter, architect and engineer. One of the country's first prominent painters, he was known for his costumbrist sensibility and preference for everyday themes.
Museum
National Museum of Fine Arts, Argentina
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