Fabio Fabbi (1861 –1945), Women in the Harem

Fabio Fabbi (Bologna 1861 –1945), “Women in the Harem”, late 19th century.
oil on canvas, 50x37 cm. Contemporary frame.
signed “Fabbi” lower left.

Small canvas depicting a scene inside a Turkish harem. The woman in the foreground, dressed in transparent veils and richly decorated fabrics, stands out against a background of twisted columns and horseshoe arches, typical elements of Islamic architecture. The other young woman sits on a very fine oriental carpet and hides her face from the viewer in a gesture of modesty. Both girls are adorned with golden jewels, which Fabbi defines with expert minute brush strokes. A valuable feature of the work is the artist’s use of a palette of bright and brilliant colors.