Artist: Arturo Orselli
Title: Encounter at the Steps
Nationality: Italian 18th century
Medium: Watercolor
Dimensions: 23 x 15″

Arturo Orselli is an Italian artist known for painting 19^th Century-style watercolors, usually a courting scene as shown here. In Garden Encounter the stairs provide an opportunity for this courtier to be just above the lovely lady with her flower basket, perhaps boosting his confidence in seeking more of her company. The look in his eyes portrays his admiration but he lady in question keeps both feet firmly on the ground. The frame is a treasure in itself, gilded and carved with a floral scene encapsulated at the top.