Forest Groundscape with Exposed Roots
Painting on canvas • Signed 'Montiglio'. Likely attributed to an artist within the contemporary South American / Latin American circuit, possibly related to the style of Chilean schools.
Style & Movement
Contemporary Expressionism / Neo-Expressionism
Medium & Technique
Oil or heavy-bodied acrylic on canvas; employs impasto, sgraffito (scoring), and rhythmic brushwork to articulate texture.
Creation Period
2016 (dated as '16' next to the signature)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 20 x 16 inches; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A close-up, low-angle depiction of tree trunks and sprawling, sculptural root systems. The composition uses a warm, orange-tinged background suggestive of a sunset or autumn light, contrasted with dark earthy tones in the foreground. Roots are treated with organic, flowing lines that emphasize life force and groundedness.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; showing some surface wear and age-consistent cracking.
Estimated Market Value
USD $800 - $1,500
Auction Estimate
USD $500 - $900
Provenance History
Unknown; likely acquired from a private gallery or directly from the artist's studio in the mid-2010s. No exhibition labels visible in the current view.
Art Historical Significance
A contemporary exploration of the landscape genre focusing on the 'bones' of nature. It reflects a modern interest in organic forms and the use of tactile surfaces to bridge the gap between representation and abstraction.
Notable Features
Distinctive white cursive signature 'Montiglio' with the date '16'. The use of incised lines (sgraffito) into the wet paint to simulate the rough texture of bark and soil is a key technical hallmark.
Condition Issues
Visible craquelure (surface cracking) in the lower left quadrant near the signature and across the thickest paint layers. Minor abrasions along the lower edge of the canvas.
Conservation Recommendations
Requires stability check for the paint film. Professional surface cleaning recommended. Should be kept in a climate-controlled environment away from direct UV light to prevent further drying of the medium.