Neuf cents italiens en 50 œuvres au Palais Bonaparte

An exhibition featuring fifty Italian artworks from the Generali Collection has opened at Palazzo Bonaparte, offering visitors a rare opportunity to view pieces previously displayed only within private settings. The showcase, which runs until August 23, includes a special highlight with the loan of Le Tre Età by Gustav Klimt from Rome’s National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art. This free entry event marks the tenth anniversary of Generali Valore Cultura, a program launched in 2016 aimed at making art and culture accessible to a broader audience. The exhibition was curated by Costantino D'Orazio, who explained that the collection's origins trace back to the early 1980s and were inspired by the vision of Giovanni Pieraccini. Unlike typical corporate collections focused on display or trend-following, this one emphasizes quality, selection, and historical awareness. The works reflect a commitment to originality, with pieces such as Mario Sironi’s study of classical forms and Giorgio De Chirico’s Centauro Morente, which diverges from the painter’s usual metaphysical style through its dramatic use of light and shadow. The exhibition is organized into thematic sections, beginning with Le Due Amiche by Umberto Boccioni, a pivotal work marking the transition from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Other highlights include works by avant-garde artists such as Giorgio de Chirico, Carlo Carrà, and Giuseppe Capogrossi, alongside figures like Ubaldo Oppi and Antonio Donghi. Notable pieces include La Vecchia by Felice Casorati and La Sposa by Donghi, both capturing intimate moments of human life. The show also features a striking portrayal of a reclining figure by Sironi, emphasizing the sculptural qualities of the human form. Among the standout works is a powerful depiction of the human body by Massimo Campigli, while a notable sketch by Mimmo Paladino adds a contemporary touch to the exhibition. The display also includes historical posters related to Generali’s insurance brand, showcasing how these visual elements have evolved over time. Additionally, the exhibit features artistic items such as scarves designed by renowned artists including Carla Accardi and Toti Scialoja, blending functionality with aesthetic value. The exhibition provides insight into the evolution of Italian art from the late 19th century through the early 20th century, highlighting key movements and individual contributions. It offers a comprehensive look at the diversity and richness of Italian artistic expression during this period, with each piece contributing to a deeper understanding of the cultural landscape. The event underscores the ongoing efforts of institutions like Generali to promote public engagement with art through thoughtful curation and accessibility initiatives.