“A painter has the universe in his mind and hands.” -Da Vinci.
Italy is popular for its art, culture, architecture, design, and more- the list is never-ending. Throughout the ages (beginning from the middle ages), this country has produced several phenomenal painters who have gained international recognition.
Italy was at the epicenter of the Renaissance, which lasted from the 14th to the 17th century. During this period, Italian sculptors and painters significantly contributed to Europe’s rich cultural heritage.
So much so that people worldwide visit this nation to understand, appreciate, and invest in the art and culture. Of course, the petition to protect the country’s art and culture by raising funds has played a major role in inviting people from all over the world to Italy.
In fact, if you are an art enthusiast and collector, you can make a Philanthropic donation to the Italian Cultural Institution and help the museum directors attain this goal.
You can connect with Bersani Law Firm&Partners to learn about the donation and its benefits, especially investment visas. Once you avail of an Italian investment visa, you’ll get free healthcare, permanent residency, and even citizenship. So, work with popular lawyers to streamline the visa process.
That said, below are the famous Italian paintings that you must explore when visiting this country.
- Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci
“Mona Lisa” is the most visited painting of all time. According to Leonardo da Vinci’s biography, it took him four years to complete this work of art. The famous lady in the painting is “Lisa del Gherardini,” who commissioned the portrait to celebrate her second son’s birth.
Unfortunately, she and her husband never received this beautiful portrait because they didn’t pay. Instead, this painting was gifted to the then-king of France, “Francis I,” and was later displayed in the palace of Fontainebleau.
This painting currently elevates the grandeur in the Louvre’s largest room, the Salle des États.
- The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli
Another Italian masterpiece you must see is “The Birth of Venus.” Painted on 172.5 cm X 278.5 cm canvas, this work by Sandro Botticelli is a life-size stunning portrayal of the “Goddess of Love & Beauty- Venus.”
It is said that to give his work a dramatic and extraordinary effect, Botticelli sewed two canvases. It took him one whole year to complete this beautiful painting which is now displayed in “Uffizi Gallery in Florence.” There are so many elements in this artwork that summing them up in just a few words is not possible. So, you must visit the gallery and see it yourself.
- Transfiguration by Raphael
Finally, you must check out Raphael’s last work, “Transfiguration.” This mesmerizing painting was supposed to be a gift from Cardinal Giulio de Medici (later Pope Clement VII) to the Cathedral in Narbonne, France.
However, Raphael could never complete it due to early death; thus, one of his students (Giulio Romano) completed it. Later on, this work was donated to the church of San Pietro in Rome.
This is among the most famous oil paintings in the world, and you can see it at the Vatican Museums.
Wrapping It All Up
As an art enthusiast, your visit to Italy is incomplete without exploring and learning about these paintings. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning for your trip right away.