Tag: Old Masters

Deposition of Christ by Donatello – The Mystery of a Restoration

By on • ( 3 Comments )

We learned from the press that the Pontifical Delegation for the Basilica of Saint Anthony ofย Padua appointed a scientific committee composed of four scholars to evaluate the conservation and restoration program of the “Equestrian Statue of Gattamelata” which stands out in the square adjacent to the Basilica of Padua.

Since 2020, Ce.St.Art and the association Territori have conceived, promoted, and presented a far-reaching project which covers not only the restoration of the “Gattamelata Statue” but above all the restoration of the “Deposition of Christ” by Donatello stored inside the Basilica and which, while representing an absolute masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance, is in a questionable condition.

Raphael’s First Signed Painting:ย The โ€œMystic Marriage of Saint Catherineโ€ of Cittร  di Castello

By on • ( 1 Comment )
Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine, Raphael

In 2010 the “(crypto)signature” in stylized letters “RAFFAEL SANT PXT” and the date 1501 in Roman numerals “MDI” were discovered inserted in the arabesque decoration of the border of Saint Catherine’s mantle.

The presence of Raphael in Cittร  di Castello in those years is proven by the historical sources and consolidated by studies and therefore the date shown on the “small tablet or small panel painting” is perfectly consistent with the biographical events of the Artist.

Moreover, Raphael’s practice of affixing his signature and cryptosignature on paintings was his typical habit during his youthful period and it was also a practice of many other artists before becoming famous.

The Enigma of Raphael โ€“ Price Analysis and History of the Legendary Artist

By on • ( 6 Comments )

Raphael’s incredible works of art were already desired when he was alive. After his passing they became real cult objects and remained as such to this day.

An endless bibliography has dealt with the Raphaelesque myth and the desire to attribute works to his authorship has led over the centuries the scholars to recognize his hand where it wasnโ€™t and not to take it into account even in cases where the documents said the opposite.

On the art market, the demand for Raphael’s paintings has always been characterized by very high values and this, of course, is an important factor of reflection to consider, which can sometimes become the keystone for the interpretation of attributive events.