Portrait of Monsignor Maffeo Barberini by Caravaggio c. 1599-1604.
Caravaggio, however, was not known for painting portraits.
This fact is what makes the first-ever display of his portrait of Maffeo Barberini so incredible.
“Portrait of Monsignor Maffeo Barberini” by Caravaggio c. 1599-1604. (Photo: Fabrizio Garrisi viaWikimedia Commons,CC0)
Barberini peers steadfastly toward the paintings left side, and dons a black biretta and a sleeveless green cassock.
Portrait of Monsignor Maffeo Barberinihas been in a privately owned collection in Florence for decades.
Its also been unavailable to scholars for study and hasnt been featured in any Caravaggio exhibitions.
“Portrait of Monsignor Maffeo Barberini” by Caravaggio c. 1599-1604, detail of face. (Photo: Fabrizio Garrisi viaWikimedia Commons,CC0 1.0)
I had spoken to many people, and they all said it was impossible.
Now,Caravaggio:The Portrait Unveiledis the first exhibition to ever showcase the rare portrait.
This is a historical loan of the utmost value, the exhibition textreads.
“Portrait of Monsignor Maffeo Barberini” by Caravaggio c. 1599-1604, detail of hand. (Photo: Fabrizio Garrisi viaWikimedia Commons,CC0 1.0)
Its a challenge, but its something well work on, if possible.
Portrait of Monsignor Maffeo Barberini by Caravaggio c. 1599-1604, detail of face.
