Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Ercole Pignatelli Biography
Ercole Pignatelli, born in Lecce on April 28, 1935, is a distinguished Italian Postwar & Contemporary painter whose artistic journey and contributions have significantly impacted the art world. His early life in the picturesque city of Lecce, never bombed during World War II, provided a serene and culturally rich environment that nurtured his creative inclinations. The artistic atmosphere of Lecce, combined with the influence of his family's appreciation for art, particularly the paintings of Michele Massari and the embroideries of his grandmother Maria, played a pivotal role in shaping Pignatelli's artistic sensibilities. At the tender age of seven, he painted an oil painting, depicting a landscape from his imagination, marking the beginning of his lifelong engagement with art.
Pignatelli's formal education in art began at the G. Pellegrino Art Institute in Lecce, where he was a pupil of sculptor Aldo Calò and painter Luigi Gabrieli. This period was crucial for his development as an artist, providing him with foundational skills and exposure to various artistic techniques. His friendship and collaboration with Bruno Orlandi further enriched his artistic journey, allowing him to explore and refine his style.
In pursuit of broader horizons and greater opportunities, Pignatelli moved to Milan at the age of 19. This decision marked a significant turning point in his career, as Milan's vibrant cultural scene offered him the chance to engage with influential figures in the art world, including Ugo Mulas, Piero Manzoni, Lucio Fontana, and Salvatore Quasimodo. His early exhibitions in Milan, such as the one at the Circolo Cittadino in Lecce in 1953, garnered attention and established him as a promising talent in the Italian art scene.
Pignatelli's artistic style is characterized by its vibrant colors, intricate compositions, and a deep connection to his Salento roots. His works often depict lush landscapes, acrobat women, and vegetations, creating a unique and imaginary world that invites viewers to explore and interpret. His use of materials and symbols in his paintings and sculptures reflects a powerful aura that mixes reality with fantasy, allowing for a dynamic and engaging visual experience.
Throughout his career, Pignatelli has received numerous accolades and has participated in prestigious exhibitions, including the Venice Biennale in 1978 and 2011. His works are part of private and public collections worldwide, attesting to his international recognition and influence. Notably, his auction records, with prices ranging from 14 USD to 26,695 USD, highlight the commercial success and appreciation of his art.
Pignatelli's resilience and adaptability were further demonstrated when he overcame a significant personal challenge. After breaking the humerus in his right arm shortly before the lockdown, he did not let this setback deter him. Instead, he reinvented his artistic practice by using his left arm and hand to create art, showcasing his unwavering passion and dedication to his craft even in the face of adversity.
Ercole Pignatelli's artistic journey is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and the profound impact he has had on the art world. His ability to draw inspiration from his surroundings, his innovative approach to art-making, and his commitment to exploring new avenues of expression have solidified his status as a master of contemporary Italian art. As he continues to inspire and influence future generations of artists, Pignatelli's legacy remains a vibrant and enduring contribution to the global art community.
Ercole Pignatelli 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
subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, through which you will be
informed at the beginning of each month about the latest
acquisitions of the art gallery.
You can send us pictures of the work: