A rarely seen painting by Italian master Caravaggio, featuring the future Pope Urban VIII from the Barberini family, is going on display for the first time in Rome. The painting, authenticated by art critic Roberto Longhi in 1963, was part of the Barberini family collection for centuries before moving into private hands in the 1930s. The exhibition, titled “Caravaggio – The Portrait Unveiled”, will be held at the Barberini Palace from November 23 to February 23. Director Thomas Clement Salomon expressed the value of the portrait, calling Maffeo Barberini a powerful man of power and intellectual refinement. The painting, known for its play on light and shadow, showcases Caravaggio’s signature style through gestures, with particular focus on the hands of the subject. Art historian Paola Nicita highlighted the significance of the outstretched right hand in the portrait, likening it to a gesture in one of Caravaggio’s famous works. This rare unveiling of the painting provides the public and experts with an exceptional opportunity to view one of Caravaggio’s few existing portraits. The exhibition promises a unique glimpse into the masterful techniques and storytelling abilities of this renowned artist.
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