PROVENANCE: Sestieri, 1966; BJU, 1966.

This painting celebrates the early 18th-century Roman style. The brilliantly colored fabrics, the monumental size, the gestured poses, and the backdrop of classical architecture all contribute to this masterful interpretation of the Cana wedding feast where Jesus performed His first miracle (John 2:1-11).

Certain elements in the painting betray a strong connection to Piastrini’s teacher, Benedetto Luti. The male figure at the left forefront of the table, the woman at the far right of the table, and the brushwork in the kneeling figure at the extreme right all seem nearly identical to Luti’s work. Other portions, such as the bride and groom, show the influence of Luti’s other student, Placido Costanzi.