Fausto Bellino Tasca

Montecito, California

Montecito’s wealthy residents were among Fausto’s early patrons. One of these, a Mrs. Norton, was instrumental in obtaining Fausto’s commission for the Mission painting.

On a very memorable evening, Fausto presented the Mission painting to the King and Queen of Belgium. The royal couple were dinner guests at the home of Mrs. Norton in Montecito. As the newspaper article indicates, Fausto had also decorated the interior of the dining room where he respectfully presented his painting.

To her august majesty, the Queen of the Belgians. I make this gift with reverence, this is my work through the aid of my benefactress, Mrs. Norton. With profound respect. Fausto Tasca.

Watercolor study for room interior, 1919
Archive of the Tasca Estate

Photo #1 of Dining Room, Montecito estate, 1919
Design and decorative painting
Archive of the Tasca Estate

Diana, Roman Goddess of the Hunt, Birthing, and the Moon
Lumachrome by Fausto Tasca, 1919
Installed painting in the niche above the fireplace
Archive of the Tasca Estate

Photo #2 of Dining Room, Montecito estate, 1919
Design and decorative painting
Archive of the Tasca Estate

During this era, Italian-themed interior decoration was apparently popular with the wealthy. Fausto earned commissions to design and execute room decorations for more than a few Montecito estates.

Design for Italianate dining room, 1919 or 1920
Watercolor on paper
Archive of the Tasca Estate

Design for Italianate dining room, 1919–1920
Photograph of completed project, photographer unknown
Archive of the Tasca Estate