Impressione, Strade Haiti

Maria De Matteis (Italian, 1898‑1988), 1959

A large and vividly coloured figurative composition depicting a Haitian street gathering, observed with the eye of one of twentieth-century Italy's distinguished costume and set designers. The densely arranged group of figures — in formal dress, military-style uniform, elaborate hats and richly varied costume — is rendered with particular attention to silhouette, colour and theatrical character.

Collection of Helen Livingston Broome (1926‑2022), New York artist and collector; by bequest to the present owner.

Signed and dated 1959 lower right. Signed and inscribed verso 'Preparazione S. Bolivar Aprile Maggio 1959' and 'Impressione Strade Haiti', with circular stamp to the reverse.