Enzo Cucchi
Roma
Year : 1990
Dimensions : cm 42x48x4
Technique : oil on canvas in steel frame
Publishings : Enzo Cucchi, Roma, Testi di Flaminio Gualdoni e Danilo Eccher, pagina 128
Exhibitions : Palazzina dei Giardini Pubblici Modena, 4 novembre-9 dicembre 1990; Galleria Civica di Arte Contemporanea Trento, 15 dicembre 1990- 3 febbraio 1991.
Authentication : authentication on photo by Enzo Cucchi
Short Review
This painting by Enzo Cucchi is a glimpse of Rome and features the fountain known to the Romans as "The Baboon Fountain" because the statue resembled a baboon. The presence of the moon suggests that the painting is nocturnal, although the statue is reflected in the fountain's water as if it were daytime. There is also a plant that resembles an agave, seen from afar, as if in profile, at the edge of the pool, while at the bottom of the painting is represented a sun This rumor gives the fountain its name, Via del Babuino. It's worth noting that Cucchi has always been fascinated by Rome's fountains, often featuring them in his paintings.
We can guess the meaning of the work. The fountain is a source of life or inspiration. The baboon is the monkey, understood as a primitive and shamanic animal. Thus, Cucchi blends myth, Baroque Rome, and the jungle, the monkey.
