In Florence , the *Madonna and Child*, a 17th-century painting that—thanks to recent restoration work—has been attributed to the circle of Francesco Curradi (Florence, 1570–1661), is once again on display in the women’s gallery of the museum tour at the Santa Maria Nuova Hospital. The restoration was made possible by a private donation to the Santa Maria Nuova Foundation and was announced in Florence this Friday.
The work, a 17th-century oil on canvas measuring 57.5 centimeters in diameter, has regained greater clarity after a layer of yellowed varnish—combined with previous interventions carried out during the 20th century—had long obscured its painted surface. The restoration was entrusted to Marina Vincenti, under the supervision of art historian Silvia Benassai and restorer Francesca Leolini. The work addressed not only the painted surface but also the canvas and the gilded wooden frame, allowing for the repair of damage the work had sustained over time.
The president of the Santa Maria Nuova Foundation, Giancarlo Landini, emphasized: “Breathing new life into the works of the Santa Maria Nuova museum collection means caring for an important part of the hospital’s and the city’s history, preserving it and making it accessible to visitors even today. We thank Ms. Marina Brière for her generous donation, which allowed us to restore this work and return it to its original clarity, showcasing it as part of the museum’s exhibition.”
The painting bears the marks of its complex history on its surface. In fact, the Madonna and Child had already undergone restoration in the past, most likely dating to the first half of the 20th century and perhaps related to a fire, as suggested by the inscription “Guido Fiscali, painting restorer,” which is still legible today on the painting’s stretcher. On that occasion, the canvas was resized to its current circular shape and relined. Finally, a plaque dedicated to the donor was placed next to the painting, recognizing the contribution that provided the financial support necessary for the restoration.
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| Florence: The "Madonna and Child" from Santa Maria Nuova Has Been Restored |
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