Life of Giovanni Morelli in Risorgimento Italy

The first biography of Giovanni Morelli, one of the founding fathers of modern art history and of connoisseurship.

Format: Hardback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2018
Publisher: Officina Libraria

Giovanni Morelli, a true visionary, revolutionized the way we perceive art. Prior to his arrival, attributing a painting to a specific artist or school was often a subjective matter, relying on impressions, hearsay, and even intuition. However, Morelli, with his medical background and meticulous attention to anatomical detail, approached art with a scientific rigor that had never been seen before. He delved into the works of renowned masters like Titian, Leonardo, and Raphael, as well as other Renaissance and Baroque painters, examining their creations with a keen eye for detail that had been overlooked by countless others.

Through his revolutionary Morellian method, Morelli shed light on the intricacies and nuances of these masterpieces, challenging the existing conventions of art appreciation. His meticulous scrutiny, analysis, and comparison of overlooked details became the foundation of modern art connoisseurship, shaping the way we interpret and value artistic creations.

Born in Italy to Swiss Protestant parents, Morelli was a proud Italian patriot who dedicated his life to his homeland. He bravely fought in the Italian Wars of Independence, risking his life to defend his nation's sovereignty. His political achievements were remarkable, as he was elected to the parliament of the newly unified Italy four times and even nominated for senator for life in 1873.

Beyond his political career, Morelli was a passionate advocate for Italy's cultural heritage. At a time when many of Italy's magnificent art collections were being acquired by foreign collectors and museums, he introduced groundbreaking legislation to protect and preserve these invaluable treasures. His efforts ensured that Italy's artistic legacy remained intact and accessible to its people.

The Life of Giovanni Morelli in Risorgimento Italy is the first comprehensive biography of this remarkable figure. It delves into his personal life, including his romantic relationships with remarkable women such as Clementina Frizzoni, Laura Acton Minghetti (wife of the Italian prime minister), and Princess Victoria (daughter of Queen Victoria and subsequently empress of Germany). The book also sheds light on his artistic journey, showcasing his extensive art collection that he bequeathed to the Accademia Carrara in Bergamo, the birthplace of his mother, a city he loved dearly.

In conclusion, Giovanni Morelli's profound impact on art history cannot be overstated. His unwavering dedication to scientific rigor, his unwavering patriotism, and his unwavering commitment to preserving Italy's cultural heritage have left an indelible mark on the world of art. His legacy continues to inspire and influence art enthusiasts and scholars alike, reminding us of the power of observation, analysis, and passion in shaping our understanding and appreciation of art.

Weight: 680g
Dimension: 235 x 172 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788899765958