Artist: Fortunino Matania (All)
9 Comments - 12,050 Views - 6 Likes
Artwork Details
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DescriptionI am still learning about Fortunino Matania. An Italian who worked in his father’s studio, an émigré to London just after the beginning of the 20th century, he is most known for his magazine illustrations depicting scenes from World War I. After the war, Matania turned his attention to classical and historical themes, some of these depictions extending as far West as to the American Frontier.Matania’s skill as an illustrator is mind-boggling. I love that he used a tan board for mid-tones and worked his way out with lighter and darker tones from there. I love how he added figures to the central one of Boone, again working his way outward while creating a central focus of emotion and tension. And his detail –including attention to historically-accurate detail – defies belief. I have Tom Benham to thank for both of these Matanias. Not only was Tom generous and kind, but he also provided me with an article on – and a short film of – Matania at work. A true collector and appreciator of beautiful art, Tom has helped me to hang a little more beauty on the walls of my home. I am most grateful to him. If Matania interests you, be sure to check out the long overdue book on him, Drawing from History, which should be available this summer. Social/Sharing |
About the Owner
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Brett B
Member Since 2004
1 - Posted on 4/25/2016
Matania was a true prodigy....he is insanely under-rated and until someone holds an original in their hands, they cannot truly see just how gorgeous his art is. Congrats on scoring these great pieces!!!
Tom B.
Member Since 2005
1 - Posted on 4/25/2016
Brett B wrote:
Matania was a true prodigy....he is insanely under-rated and until someone holds an original in their hands, they cannot truly see just how gorgeous his art is. Congrats on scoring these great pieces!!!Prodigy indeed! If you haven't seen what he was capable of even at the age of three, google "Fortunino Matania goat". His rendition is far more observant than what I'd expect an average adult to render.
Ken Z
Member Since 2006
1 - Posted on 4/25/2016
I brought this up on my phone and before making it bigger, it looked like a photograph. The man was a genius with the tools of his trade! Your other piece has DaVinci in it and I believe even he would have had nothing but praise for his works. Congrats on 2 Stunning examples of his art.
Chris K.
Member Since 2008
1 - Posted on 4/26/2016
This is absolutely stunning, Mark - has to be a sight to behold in person. Just out of curiosity, how big are the two pieces? Great additions to a tremendous collection!
artless artmore
Member Since 2013
1 - Posted on 3/29/2018
Wonderful! Such a different vibe with this one but the same fabulous display of skill and beauty
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McDonald's Artist - McDonald's Happy Meal Prelimin |
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JIM LEE PUNISHER WAR JOURNAL #4 COVER (1989, FLASHBACK TO THE VIETNAM WAR) |
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John Byrne - Iron Fist #11, Page 17 |
SUB-MARINER #11 COMIC BOOK COVER ORIGINAL ART BY GENE COLAN. |
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