Important Oil on canvas by Italian master, Giovanni Signorini (Italian, 1808-1858). Signed and dated "Gis: Signorini Firenze 1849" lower left. Giovanni Signorini was a scenographic court painter for the Grand Duke of Tuscany and was well known for painting annual events, celebrations, and spectacles for the Tuscan aristocracy. Signorini's son, Telemaco, was also an important Italian artist. This oil on canvas depicts a harbor scene with ships anchored in the harbor and a multitude of activity. Some of this activity is depicted in the lower right corner, showing individuals swimming and others viewing ships in the harbor. The left lower corner depicts commerce activity between merchants and livestock grazing in back of them. The left center areas shows men working on the hull of a boat in dry dock. Condition - overall very good condition with a small tear to canvas on bottom right side, very minor flaking of canvas near mast, varnish matted somewhat in area near tower. Blacklighting does not indicate inpainting or restoration. Unframed. Painting dimensions 23-1/2" H x 40-3/4" W. Circa 1849.