Until April 4, a major exhibition dedicated to Artemisia Gentileschi (Rome, July 8, 1593 – Naples, circa 1654-1656) explores the formative years she spent in Florence between 1613 and 1620. It was here that the painter reached artistic maturity, became one of the first women admitted to the Accademia delle Arti e del Disegno, received prestigious commissions from the Medici and moved within the intellectual circles of the period. Museo degli Innocenti hosts the display that is both an academic endeavour to bring together the different strands of her art and influences, while also being a bridge to a wider public.
Focusing on this pivotal chapter of her career, the show features over 50 works on loan from more than 40 prestigious institutions and collections, including the recently restored ‘Allegory of Inclination’ from Casa Buonarroti and two pieces by Caravaggio, including The Mondofrutto (Boy peeling fruit), with its intriguing story detailed.
Artemisia Gentileschi, Judith with Her Maidservant, c. 1610–1620, oil on canvas, 120.5 x 113.5 cm, Rome. Private Collection
Caravaggio, Boy Peeling a Fruit, late 16th century, oil on canvas, 64.2 x 51.4 cm, London. Private Collection
Orazio Gentileschi, Saint Cecilia Playing the Spinet with an Angel, 1615–1621, oil on canvas, 90 × 105 cm, Perugia, Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria
Artemisia Gentileschi, Samson and Delilah, 1620–1625, oil on canvas, 164 × 200 cm, Private Collection
The trials that were the backdrop to Artemisia’s arrival in Florence at age 20 are outlined, but we are reminded that the artist is not to be reduced to her biography or the story of her father, Orazio. Instead, quotes along the path evidence her artistic prowess, such as words by celebrated art historian Roberto Longhi that declare her a leading figure of Caravaggesque naturalism.
We move through her life, influences and oeuvre to reach the upper rooms of the museum, where her large-scale works are placed alongside the masters of the era, providing a comprehensive and moving portrait of the 17th century artist.
