Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Antonio Ligabue Biography
Antonio Ligabue, born Antonio Laccabue on December 18, 1899, in Zurich, Switzerland, emerged as one of the most significant Naïve artists of the 20th century. His life, marked by profound struggles and a unique artistic journey, reflects the indomitable spirit of a man who, despite numerous adversities, found solace and expression through art.
Ligabue's early life was fraught with challenges. He was born to Elisabetta Costa, a native of Cencenighe Agordino, and supposedly to Bonfiglio Laccabue, a native from Reggio Emilia, although the true identity of his father remains unknown. Tragedy struck early when his mother and three brothers died in 1913 due to food poisoning. In September 1900, at a tender age of nine months, Ligabue was entrusted to the Swiss couple Johannes Valentin Göbel and Elise Hanselmann. This marked the beginning of a tumultuous childhood, characterized by frequent relocations and a struggle with physical and mental health issues. Ligabue suffered from rickets and vitamin deficiencies, which stunted his physical development and caused cranial malformations.
Despite these hardships, Ligabue displayed an innate talent for drawing. His academic journey was marred by difficulties, leading to his expulsion from an institution for handicapped children at the age of 12. His adoptive family's economic and cultural constraints forced them into a nomadic lifestyle, further exacerbating young Ligabue's challenges. After a violent altercation with his foster mother, he was hospitalized in a psychiatric clinic in 1917. In 1919, following a complaint by Hanselmann, Ligabue was expelled from Switzerland and relocated to Gualtieri, Italy, the birthplace of his adoptive father. Here, he led a life marked by isolation and poverty, working occasionally as a farmhand and living among the floodplains of the River Po.
Ligabue's artistic journey began in earnest in 1920 when he started painting and sculpting with clay. His encounter with Renato Marino Mazzacurati in 1928 was a turning point. Mazzacurati recognized Ligabue's raw talent and introduced him to oil painting, which became his primary medium. Despite his lack of formal training, Ligabue's art was characterized by a profound authenticity and a unique personal style. His works, often featuring wild animals, landscapes, and self-portraits, are a testament to his deep connection with nature and his introspective exploration of self.
Throughout his life, Ligabue faced numerous mental health challenges, leading to multiple hospitalizations. However, his art continued to evolve, gaining recognition and acclaim. In 1961, his first solo exhibition was held at the La Barcaccia gallery in Rome, marking the beginning of his official recognition. Unfortunately, Ligabue's health deteriorated, and he was stricken with paralysis following a motorcycle accident. Despite these setbacks, his fame continued to grow, culminating in a major retrospective in Guastalla in 1963.
Antonio Ligabue's life was a testament to the transformative power of art. His works, characterized by their emotional depth and raw authenticity, have left an indelible mark on the world of Naïve art. Ligabue's legacy is preserved through the efforts of the Antonio Ligabue Museum Foundation and the numerous exhibitions organized in his honor. His story, a poignant narrative of struggle, resilience, and artistic genius, continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. Ligabue passed away on May 27, 1965, in Gualtieri, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be celebrated for its originality and emotional impact.
Antonio Ligabue 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
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