This set of four antique 19th century Italian mixed media painting on paper hand made with gouache, tempera and watercolor, features several characters acting in a theater play.
These fine artworks are very unusual, they probably were sketches for theatrical costumes and sets.
A rare example of Venetian 19th century theatrical figures in the scenery of Italian opera or characters of the Italian Commedia dell'arte.
These four paintings featuring costume design figurines, with the characters acting in a theatrical set, are rendered
through the decoupage technique mixing watercolor painting or gouache with tempera on paper.
Each tiny figurine is made of paper hand-colored in watercolor, then cut and applied to an antique sheet of engraving paper previously painted with tempera.

The harmonious pastel color palette enhance the aesthetic and highly decorative features of these paintings, each one different from the other, the more you admire them, the more you discover new details.
The characters are glued in a rectangular white painted background framed by a wide watercolor hand painted band with floral patterns and rocaille design.
These gouache are a precious set similar in color palette and size a wonderful addition to any room. Each painting is housed in a rectangular light green lacquered wooden frame.
Good overall condition considering age and material, very charming and romantic even with some small imperfections due to age.
Measures: H. 60 W. 85 D.2 cm