Antonio Zona

Antonio Zona (1813-1892) was an Italian painter, born in Gambarare and active in Rome. He was known for his skillful use of watercolor, creating captivating portraits like the one shown here. This piece showcases a woman in a black lace shawl, holding a cigarette, a subject that was somewhat scandalous in the 19th century. Zona's work often depicts scenes of daily life and portraits, capturing the nuances of human expression and character.