by Redazione 14/11/2026
Categories: News / Disclaimer
With an investment of 10,000 euros, the museum is launching a fundraising campaign through the Art Bonus program to restore the 1714 painting, attributed to the workshop of Giovanni Maria Delle Piane. The restoration will take place in the Royal Apartments, with the worksite open to visitors.
The Royal Palace of Caserta is seeking supporters for the restoration of the full-length portrait of Elisabetta Farnese, a painting from 1714 attributed to the workshop of Giovanni Maria Delle Piane, known as “il Molinaretto.” The museum has launched a fundraising campaign throughthe Art Bonus program, inviting citizens, businesses, and patrons to contribute to the conservation of the work, for which a total investment of 10,000 euros is planned. The restoration will take place inside the Royal Apartments, in an open workshop that will allow visitors to directly observe the various stages of the work.
The painting is part of the museum’s Farnese Collection, specifically the “Fasti Farnesiani” series, which commemorates the marriage of Elisabetta Farnese and Philip V, King of Spain. The oil on canvas, measuring 221 x 155 centimeters, depicts the Duchess of Parma and last descendant of the Farnese family (Parma, 1692 – Aranjuez, 1766), mother of Charles of Bourbon.
The sovereign is depicted in full figure and in a three-quarter view, turning toward the viewer. The composition is distinguished by a portrayal of the female figure that emphasizes understated elegance, without resorting to a lavish display of jewelry. The only element of this kind is the crown placed on a table. Elisabetta’s face, illuminated and characterized by the fairness of her complexion, stands out against the dark background of the canvas. Particular attention is paid to the rendering of her dress, complemented by a blue velvet cloak lined with ermine and a bodice adorned at the center with a jeweled medallion bearing the effigy of Philip V.
Currently, the work is in fair condition, although the effects of time are evident. The restoration project is notable for the decision to make the entire restoration process accessible to the public. The restoration site will be set up within the tour route of the Royal Apartments, allowing visitors to observe the restorers’ work up close and learn about the various steps required to preserve the painting. The preservation of the artwork will thus also serve as an opportunity to gain insight into restoration techniques and practices.
The fundraising effort utilizes the Art Bonus program, which allows citizens and businesses to support initiatives for the preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage while benefiting from a tax credit. Donations will help fund the restoration of a testament to the history of the Farnese and Bourbon dynasties, preserved in the Royal Palace’s collections. To participate in the fundraising campaign, visit the Art Bonus portal and the page dedicated to the project on the Royal Palace of Caserta’s website: https://artbonus.gov.it/785-reggia.html.
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| The Royal Palace of Caserta is seeking patrons to restore the portrait of Elisabetta Farnese |
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