PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Auckland

Dunedin born artist Peter McIntyre left New Zealand to study at London's Slade School of Fine Art which he attended from 1931 to 1934. The Slade emphasised classical draughtsmanship based on the art of Raphael and other Italian masters. Strong links with Italy were established during his service in Europe as New Zealand's war artist, appointed by General Freyberg. During the war, McIntyre's watercolours were exhibited in London, Alexandria, Suez, Rome, Trieste and Florence.

Later visits to Venice and Florence saw McIntyre create watercolours dedicated to capturing the historical landmarks of these cities. In this work, McIntyre places a horse and cart used to transport tourists through the streets of Florence in a corner of the Piazza della Signoria. They stand before the wide arches of the Loggia dei Lanzi, Florence's open air sculpture gallery of antique and Renaissance art which includes the Medici lions. The Uffizi is at the rear of the Loggia.