Achille Perelli
(Italian/Louisiana, 1822-1891)

"Nature Morte: Mallard Duck"

watercolor
signed and localized "N.O." lower left.
Matted, glazed and framed.
sight 25" x 15-1/2", framed 36" x 26"

Notes: Joining a growing community of Italian immigrants, Achille Perelli arrived in New Orleans in 1850 from his native Italy and became actively involved in the city's art scene.
Perelli studied with Italian sculptor Galli and at the Accademia di Belle Arti, before fleeing his homeland due to the unsuccessful Italian revolution of 1848 and the defeat of Garibaldi.
An avid sportsman, Perelli painted Nature Morte still lives of birds, fish and small animals that he caught, and then returned to the studio to paint watercolors known for realistic depictions and in a trompe-loeil style of hanging the dead animal on a nail by a string. Nature Mortes were popular decor in New Orleans homes in the 19th century and were painted by other artists including George Louis Viavant and Leda Hincks Plauche.

Not unframed for condition report. Toning of the paper support. Good, strong colors. No signs of past restorations. Small brown dots/stains scattered throughout. Wood veneer frame with period matting: surface marks, nicks and abrasions.