Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Aroldo Bonzagni Biography
Aroldo Bonzagni was a distinguished Italian painter, draftsman, and illustrator, whose life and career were as vibrant and compelling as his art. Born on September 24, 1887, in Cento, Italy, Bonzagni's journey into the world of art began at an early age. His initial art training took place in his hometown, near Ferrara, but it was his move to Milan at the impressionable age of 19 that marked the beginning of his significant contributions to the art world. In Milan, he enrolled at the prestigious Accademia di Brera, where he was mentored by notable artists such as Cesare Tallone, Giuseppe Mentessi, and Lodovico Pogliaghi. It was here that Bonzagni's path crossed with Carlo Carrà, leading to his involvement with the Futurists, a group of avant-garde artists who sought to break away from traditional forms of expression.
Despite signing the first edition of the "Manifesto of Futurist Painters" in 1910, Bonzagni's relationship with the Futurist movement was complex. He never fully adhered to their fragmented dynamic style or shared their fascination with the automobile and industrial technology. Instead, Bonzagni remained an observer of contemporary life, preferring a more expressive approach reminiscent of French painter Henri Toulouse Lautrec. His work, characterized by an immediacy and liveliness, portrayed scenes of urban life with a keen eye for detail and emotion. This can be seen in his 1916 painting entitled "The Monza Tram," which vividly captures the essence of urban existence.
Bonzagni's political views and disdain for the aristocracy were evident in his caricatures and vignettes, which often depicted social subjects with a critical eye. In 1914, driven by economic necessity and the looming threat of war, Bonzagni left Italy for Argentina, where he was commissioned to execute frescoes in the hippodrome of Buenos Aires. Although these works are now unfortunately destroyed, this period was significant in Bonzagni's career, showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt to different artistic demands.
Upon his return to Italy within a year, Bonzagni focused more intently on popular themes, candidly depicting the lives of the poor in his drawings and paintings. His work during this period is a testament to his empathy and deep connection with the human condition, offering a poignant commentary on society and its disparities.
Tragically, Bonzagni's life and burgeoning career were cut short when he succumbed to the Spanish Influenza pandemic on December 30, 1918, in Milan, at the young age of 31. Despite his premature death, Bonzagni's legacy lives on through his art and the Galleria d'arte moderna Aroldo Bonzagni in Cento, established in 1959 in his memory. The gallery, expanded in 1964 through the efforts of Bonzagni's sister Elva, houses many of his paintings and archives, serving as a lasting tribute to his artistic genius.
Bonzagni's body of work, which includes notable pieces such as "Exit from La Scala" (1910), "You are unbearable!" (1912), "Dancer" (1912), "The Monza Tram" (1916), and "Dregs of Society" (1917-18), reflects his diverse talents and his commitment to portraying the realities of life with honesty and compassion. His art, which was influenced by the likes of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Jean-Louis Forain, and Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen, remains a significant contribution to the Italian Impressionist and Modern art movements.
In conclusion, Aroldo Bonzagni's artistic journey was marked by his relentless pursuit of authenticity, his critical eye towards society, and his profound empathy for the human condition. His work continues to inspire and resonate with audiences, serving as a powerful reminder of the role of art in reflecting and challenging the world around us.
Aroldo Bonzagni Quotes and
Sales of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
If you wish to purchase works by the painter: Contact us
and let us know your request. We will inform you about the
available works. We also offer the possibility to
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informed at the beginning of each month about the latest
acquisitions of the art gallery.
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