Carlo Erba, the artist, was a figure whose life and work were deeply intertwined with the cultural and artistic movements of early 20th-century Italy. Born in Milan in 1884, he was the heir to the pharmaceutical company C. Erba, which had been established by his namesake, the pioneering pharmacist Carlo Erba, in the 19th century. Despite his inheritance of a successful business, the younger Carlo Erba was drawn to the arts and chose to pursue his passion for painting. Privately initiated into his studies, Carlo Erba decided around the turn of the century to devote himself to art, a decision that would lead him to become an active participant in the Italian art scene. His artistic journey coincided with a period of great transformation and innovation in the arts, marked by the emergence of various movements that sought to break away from traditional forms and conventions. Erba's work was influenced by the prevailing artistic currents of his time, including Impressionism and Modernism. These movements, characterized by a departure from realistic representation and an emphasis on the artist's perception and expression, provided a fertile ground for Erba's creativity. His paintings often captured the essence of the modern experience, reflecting the dynamism and the changing face of society. One of the most significant movements that left its mark on Erba's work was Futurism. Founded in Italy in the early 20th century, Futurism celebrated the technological advancements of the age, the beauty of speed, and the disruption of the old in favor of the new. Erba's engagement with Futurism is evident in his painting "Volto Futurista" (Futurist Face), created in 1910. This work exemplifies the movement's aesthetic, with its bold use of color, dynamic composition, and the sense of movement that pervades the piece. Throughout his career, Carlo Erba participated in the vibrant cultural life of Milan and was part of a community of artists who were pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. His works were exhibited and appreciated in various venues, and he was recognized as a significant contributor to the Italian art scene. Tragically, Carlo Erba's life and artistic career were cut short by the First World War. He died in 1917 at the Battle of Monte Ortigara, leaving behind a legacy that would be remembered by future generations. His contributions to art were not forgotten, and his works continued to be showcased in exhibitions and galleries, allowing his vision to be shared with a wider audience. Erba's artistic output, though limited by his untimely death, was marked by a dedication to exploring new forms and ideas. His drawings and paintings from 1905 to 1915 reveal a keen eye for detail and a willingness to experiment with different styles and techniques. These works provide a window into the creative mind of an artist who was both a product of his time and a contributor to the broader narrative of Italian art. In the years following his death, Carlo Erba's art has been offered at auction multiple times, with collectors showing continued interest in his work. His pieces are held in private collections and have been the subject of scholarly attention, contributing to the understanding of the artistic developments of the early 20th century. Today, Carlo Erba is remembered not only as an heir to a pharmaceutical empire but more importantly, as an artist whose life was dedicated to the pursuit of artistic innovation. His work stands as a testament to the vibrant and transformative period of Italian art in which he lived and created.

Carlo Erba Quotes and Sales of Works

Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current market values.

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