Thinking of Garibaldi 1862

Domenico Induno created this oil on canvas painting, ‘Thinking of Garibaldi’, using traditional materials and techniques from the mid-19th century. The artist's skilled manipulation of the oil paint allows him to create realistic and lifelike details, particularly in the rendering of textures and surfaces, seen here in the woman's dress and the rough plaster of the wall. The choice of subject matter reflects the social and political context of the time, with Garibaldi being a key figure in the Italian Risorgimento. The artist skillfully represents the mood of the character through the use of material and the application of paint, with the subdued palette contributing to the atmosphere of contemplation. Domenico Induno blurs the boundaries between fine art and social commentary by combining artistic skill, attention to materiality, and engagement with contemporary political issues. This approach encourages us to consider the broader context and significance of the artwork.