Donatus Buongiorno seemed to have an affection for musicians, as he painted them many times, and these paintings are among his warmest portraits. He had friends who were musicians, and his son Biagio, born in New York in 1901, became a musician.

Man in Brown Suit Playing Guitar
Circa 1920
Oil on canvas
21-3/4 x 16 in.
Collection of Janice Carapellucci

Circa 1920
oil on canvas
23-3/4 x 15-1/2
Collection of Janice Carapellucci

Old Musician with Cello
Circa 1900
Oil on canvas
15-3/4 x 11-3/4 in.
Collection of Janice Carapellucci Three Merry Musicians
Circa 1920
31 x 20 in.
Oil on canvas mounted on board
This painting is for sale. Contact me for details.
Do you know any of these musicians?
Donatus Buongiorno knew musicians and may have painted images of his friends—or may have hired local people in New York, Naples or Solofra, Avellino, to pose for him. If you recognize any of these people, please contact me. I would love to trace whom he knew and how he found his models. Send a private e-mail here, or post a comment below.
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