Nuzzi is said to have trained with the Roman painter Tommaso Salini (1575-1625), who was probably his uncle. His early specialisation in flower painting made Mario Nuzzi the most important representative of this genre in his time. His success is reflected in the number of works listed in the inventories of numerous Roman palaces and those in the collections of many patrician families even beyond Rome. Another large part of his production was sent abroad, especially to Spain. His absolute mastery of this genre is also reflected in the nickname "Mario dei Fiori". His compositions of plants occasionally include figures that he created in collaboration with important artists such as Carlo Maratta. With their brilliant technique, his works are among the best floral still lifes of his time. The depiction of birds, such as the hoopoe or the magpie, as well as the upside-down vase, testify to an allegorical meaning not uncommon in Italian still lifes of the early 17th century. We thank Prof. Alberto Cottino for attributing these imposing still lifes to Mario Nuzzi. Because of the noticeable "Caravaggism" as well as the equally noticeable influence of his teacher Salini, he considers these monumental counterparts to be relatively early works by the painter. Dimensions Each 122.2 x 86.6 cm Artist or Maker Mario Nuzzi, called Mario de' Fiori Medium Oil on canvas Provenance Private collection, Turin. - Acquired there from the present owner. Notes VAT: Margin scheme