The Confession
Ca. 1883. Oil on panel.Not on display
The title of this work alludes to the flirting between the two characters, playing with the similarity between the basket chair and a confessional. The scene deals with one of the most frequent subjects in genre paintings from the second half of the nineteenth century: flirting and other games among the bourgeoisie. In opting for a vertical formant, the painter concentrates our attention on what is taking place, the gallant conversation between the two youths, avoiding the distraction of a broader landscape. The light color scheme, precise drawing and virtuoso finish are worthy of Palmaroli´s finest works. After passing through several private collections, this work was purchased by the artist´s son, who bequeathed it to the Museum of Modern Art in 1931.
