Figurative Seascape Appraisal

Seascape with Horse-Drawn Cart at Sunset

This item is an oil painting on an unknown substrate, likely canvas or board, depicting a rural or coastal landscape scene. The artwork is characterized by a vibrant color palette, particularly in the sky which features a blend of blues, whites, and oranges, suggesting a sunset or dramatic cloud cover. The brushstrokes are evident and appear somewhat impasto, contributing to a textured surface, especially noticeable in the sky and foreground. The composition features a horse-drawn cart with a solitary figure in the foreground, traveling along a light-colored path or road that recedes into the middle ground. To the right of the path, there's a field of green and reddish-brown hues, possibly indicating cultivated land or natural vegetation. In the background, white buildings with red roofs are visible, suggesting a village or cluster of houses, possibly Mediterranean in style. A barren tree with dark branches stands conspicuously on the right side of the path, adding a touch of starkness to the scene. The painting is housed within a multi-layered frame consisting of a gold-toned outer frame with a decorative profile and an inner brown mat or liner, which enhances the artwork. Visible at the bottom left, though partially obscured, is a signature that appears to read 'Gozzo H' or 'Gozzo K', with the 'H' or 'K' followed by an illegible number, possibly indicating a date. The general condition of the painting appears stable, with no obvious signs of significant damage, tears, or cracking from the provided image. The frame also appears to be in good condition, with minor wear consistent with age. This piece likely dates from the mid to late 20th century, given its style and execution.