The Butterfly Boy
Oil on panel, 45 x 30.5 cm, by Adriano Bonifazi, 1879
Private collection

Bonifazi's paintings of children were particularly popular in the late 19th century. He often depicted them playing in idyllic settings, surrounded by nature. His work is characterised by a sense of innocence and nostalgia, capturing the beauty and simplicity of childhood. His Butterfly Boy depicts a young boy holding a butterfly in his hand. The boy's face is filled with wonder and delight, and the butterfly is painted with delicate detail.