Pietro Longhi Painting Reproductions 2 of 2

Pietro Longhi (born Pietro Falca), was an 18th-century Venetian painter renowned for his detailed and in-depth depictions of everyday life in Venice. His pieces often included scenes depicting middle and upper class social life that captured the spirit of that time period.

Pietro Longhi was born November 5, 1701 or 1702 in Venice to Alessandro Falca (a silversmith), and Margherita (from a family of painters). Longhi first studied under his uncle Antonio Balestra a well-known Venetian painter before going on to Bologna where he studied under Giuseppe Maria Crespi who specialized in genre paintings as well as religious themes - his influence can be seen in Longhi's early works which frequently included religious and historical themes.

Longhi returned to Venice in 1730s and quickly made a name for himself as a painter of genre scenes depicting everyday life of its residents. His paintings captured every minute detail imaginable - clothing, furnishings, mannerisms of each individual depicted; this also extended to depictions from middle and upper class life such as parties, masquerades and family gatherings.

Longhi's paintings stood apart from the grand historical and religious works that were prevalent at the time, offering instead an insight into Venetian society's daily activities such as leisure activities and social customs of his day. His style featured delicate brushstrokes with soft colors to convey intimacy in each of his scenes.

Longhi is best-known for his iconic paintings such as "The Ridotto," which depicts a masquerade ball at a Venetian gambling house, and "La Visita," depicting a woman greeting visitors into her home. These two works capture the spirit of 18th-century Venice as well as providing unique insights into its social life.

Pietro Longhi was active in Venice throughout his life, working and exhibiting his paintings there for an audience that included members of the Venetian Academy of Fine Arts as a member and eventually becoming its professor of painting in 1762. He remained an influential artist until his death on May 8, 1785.

Longhi's work was widely recognized during his lifetime, coveted by collectors and patrons alike. Today, Longhi's art serves as an invaluable record of 18th-century Venetian society and culture - his works can be found in major museum and private collections around the world.