Luigi da Rios, an Italian painter born in Ceneda, Vittorio Veneto, in 1843, left an indelible mark on the art world during his lifetime (1843 – February 1892). His artistic journey began at the prestigious Academy of Fine Arts in Venice, where he garnered numerous accolades for his exceptional talent and dedication.
In an effort to avoid conscription into the Austrian armies, Luigi sought refuge in Florence in May 1866. Following the resolution of the conflict, he returned to Venice, focusing his artistic prowess on painting portraits, genre scenes, and historical subjects.
Between 1867 and 1882, Luigi consistently showcased his works at the annual exhibitions of the Venetian Promotrice di Belle Arti. Among his noteworthy creations are “Una cameriera,” “Torquato Tasso,” “Raffaello e la Fornarina,” and “Le donne al pozzo,” the latter earning him the first prize at the 1872 Regional Exhibition in Treviso. Other notable pieces include “Le analfabete” (the illiterate), “L’orfanella,” “Una calle a Venezia,” “Dopo la messa,” “Dopo il lavoro,” and “Lettura.”
Luigi da Rios’s artistic contributions extended beyond canvas paintings, as he also adorned various spaces with his frescoes. Notable examples include Villa Bisacco-Palazzi in Chirignago (1864), Villa Visconti di Modrone on Lake Como (1866), and the parish church of Chirignago (1878).
His artistic prowess was duly recognized, leading to his appointment as an academic of merit at the Venetian Academy. Additionally, Luigi became a distinguished member of the Society of Watercolor Painters in Brussels, solidifying his esteemed position in the art community. Luigi da Rios breathed his last in Venice in 1892, leaving behind a legacy of artistic brilliance that continues to be celebrated.
