Over The Wall

Filippo Palizzi, born on June 16, 1818, in Vasto, Italy, emerged as a pivotal figure in Italian art during the latter half of the 19th century, renowned for his contributions to the Verismo movement. The fifth of thirteen children in a family with carbonare leanings, Palizzi's artistic journey began in earnest when he moved to Naples in 1836 to join his brother Giuseppe. His brief tenure at the Reale Accademia di Belle Arti di Napoli under Gabriele Smargiassi was marked by ideological and artistic discord, leading to his departure. This decision underscored his independent spirit and commitment to artistic authenticity. Rejecting academic conventions, Palizzi sought inspiration under Giuseppe Bonolis, focusing on the meticulous study of nature, particularly animals, which became a hallmark of his work. His debut at the 1839 biennial exhibition at the Reale Museo borbonico with 'Studio di animali' marked the beginning of a distinguished career. A sojourn to Galați in 1842 to teach painting expanded his horizons, though he returned to Naples two years later, deeply engaged with the Risorgimento's fervor, as reflected in works like 'Sera del 18 febbraio 1848 a Napoli' and 'Barricate del 15 maggio 1848'. Palizzi's legacy is not only in his vibrant depictions of Neapolitan life and customs but also in his role as a bridge between traditional Italian art and the emerging realist trends of his time.