Italy recently bought a rare portrait by Caravaggio for €30 million ($34.7 million). This is one of the biggest amounts the country has ever paid for a piece of art.
The painting shows Monsignor Maffeo Barberini, who later became Pope Urban VIII. Italy's culture minister, Alessandro Giuli, called the portrait "exceptionally important."
A New Home for a Masterpiece
The portrait was previously in a private collection in Florence. It was first shown to the public in Rome in 2004. Now, it will be part of the permanent collection at the Palazzo Barberini. This historic building was once home to the Barberini family. The painting will be displayed with other works by Caravaggio.
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Start Your News DetoxCaravaggio, a master of the Baroque style, painted Barberini around 1598. The painting hints at Barberini's future power. He wears a green cloak, and his right hand is extended as if giving orders to someone outside the painting. Barberini became pope in 1623 and was known for supporting the arts until his death in 1644.
Keeping Art Public
Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli explained that this purchase helps keep important artworks from being hidden in private collections. He said the ministry plans to buy more art in the future. The goal is to make masterpieces available to scholars and art lovers, rather than letting them go to the private market.
Giuli thanked everyone involved for their hard work in making this important acquisition happen.
