The “Parmigianino: The Vision of Saint Jerome” exhibition showcases ‘The Madonna and Child with Saints’, returning after ten years. Parmigianino, a youthful prodigy from Parma, gained fame in Rome despite the chaos of the Sack of Rome, where looting soldiers allowed him to finish the painting. The exhibition includes his preparatory sketches, highlighting his artistic process and impact during the Renaissance.
The exhibition “Parmigianino: The Vision of Saint Jerome” is a significant event showcasing the artist’s renowned work, ‘The Madonna and Child with Saints’. This masterpiece is on public display for the first time in a decade, following its conservation. Parmigianino, a prodigy from Parma, gained fame for his artistic skill at a young age. His move to Rome at 21 marked a pivotal moment, where he received immense recognition. Despite the turmoil of the Sack of Rome in 1527, legend has it that invading soldiers allowed him to complete the painting, mesmerised by its beauty. The exhibition includes a collection of his preparatory sketches, providing insight into his creative process.
Parmigianino, whose real name was Girolamo Francesco Maria Mazzola, was an eminent figure of the Renaissance, known for his unique artistic vision and style. He captivated audiences early on with his extraordinary talent, which led him to Rome, where he was hailed as a ‘Raphael reborn’. The turbulent period of the Sack of Rome during his work highlights not just the chaos surrounding him but also the value placed on his art, as noted by stories of soldiers pausing their looting to admire his work. This exhibition reunites his sketches with the altarpiece, illustrating his meticulous approach to composition.
This exhibition not only marks a homecoming for Parmigianino’s masterpiece after a long absence but also offers a rare opportunity to appreciate the intricate process behind its creation. By displaying sketches alongside the final work, it enriches our understanding of this visionary Renaissance artist and his contributions to the art world during a time of great strife.
Original Source: www.mutualart.com