Louise Marianetti (American, 1916-2009). "Death Mask", 1945. Tempera on panel. Signed & dated upper right corner. Dimensions: 10" x 8"; framed: 15" x 13". This macabre scene of a skull decorated with roses both lures and repels the viewer. You are often left wondering what was the artist thinking when she painted this. Is her intent to show off her craftsmanship or seduce you into the underworld. Many of Marianetti’s paintings have this effect and have been described by critics as a “brooding mystical creative spirit”. She was distinguished for her exacting technique and refinement of the egg tempera medium, a tribute to the early Renaissance artists. Her realistic approach transcends to an other worldly realm leaving the viewers with the impression of a super real or magical mysticism. Marianetti produced some of her most accomplished works when she attended the Arts Student League from 1936 – 1939. Her realistic work was very advanced after her RISD training before she entered the ASL and she would go onto to a long and productive art career painting and exhibiting her work. The artist garnered critical reviews from the Providence Journal, New York Times and Fort Worth Star. She is listed in Who Was Who in American Art. A Bert Gallery catalogue on the artist is available on blurb.com.

Good

15 x 13 in

3 lb