This is a truly splendid antique oil on canvas painting featuring a period interior scene by Francesco Bergamini (1851-1900) Italian, signed and dated 1894. This beautiful oil painting titled 'The Purloiners' depicts a seated monk being charmed by a thief while his accomplices steal his belongings, all are dressed in period costumes while a donkey surveys the seen. Signed F. Bergamini, Roma. It is housed in it's magnificent original giltwood frame which adds extra splendour to this remarkable work of art. Add this splendid antique painting to a very special wall in your home. Condition: In really excellent condition, please see photos for confirmation. Dimensions in cm: Height 73 x Width 104 x Depth 7 - Frame Height 50 x Width 81 x Depth 6 - Canvas Dimensions in inches: Height 2 foot, 5 inches x Width 3 foot, 5 inches x Depth 3 inches - Frame Height 1 foot, 8 inches x Width 2 foot, 8 inches x Depth 2 inches - Canvas Francesco Bergamini (Active 1880 - 1915) Francesco Bergamini was an Italian artist who specialized in interior genre and religious scenes, as well as the occasional commission for a portrait or fresco. He received his formal training at the Academy in Carrare under the direction of Giuseppe Diotti (1779 – 1846) - an artist who specialized in religious and historical scenes as well as portraiture and frescos. The Altar Boy's Sermon is a mature example of Bergamini’s works and not only displays his strong academic training, but beautifully illustrates the influence of the French Impressionists were having on not only him, but on many artists of the period. His figures are anatomically correct, but are created with a looser brush stroke and colourful palette. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no official proof of authenticity, however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity issues arising from misattribution