361 'THE JOY OF SPRINGTIME'
by Fortunino Matania (1881-1963)

Daffodils are probably the most delightful herald of the new season. After months without the brightness of fresh-cut flowers, suddenly their golden trumpets are here to bring out the best in all of us. Winter's long greyness can disappear within seconds of being mesmerised with the sight of daffodils. And the white blooms with their distinctive bright red trumpets, are almost toot-tooting their presence for all to see.

Here we are witnessing a very unusual combination of what are normally accepted as northern spring flowers, yet set in such an unusual 'il paradiso' view from a Mediterranean balcony. This surreal setting perhaps was more of an aspiration by this homesick Italian artist. The beautiful Minoan pot sets the bouquet perfectly - its natural terra cotta hues enhancing the floral contrasts.
As the turquoise sea disappears over the horizon, it makes one feel envious of those who live within the property. This too must surely be a magnificent palace - just the base of one marble pillar is enough for us to imagine the classical excellence that must surround us on all sides.

So this painting of 'Joy of Spring' is the interpretation of just how vivid imagination can be, and our dreams really can be fulfilled through artistic interpretation.

Fortunino was the son and student of his father, the artist Edward Matania. Fortunino was born in Naples, Italy in 1881. He was a draughtsman and miniaturist as well as painting in oils and watercolours. He was very talented in pastel drawings too. He began his career from the age of just 14 years old travelling to Milan to draw for a magazine. Subsequently he worked in Paris and then London illustrating for The Graphic and The Sphere. Following his depictions of the First World War he was honoured by the Italian Government. While living in London he exhibited extensively at the R.A. and the R.I. and some of his work was purchased by Queen Mary. When much younger, he became a contemporary of John Singer Sargeant.