At the Louvre: Robert Polidori

The Louvre in Paris hosted an exhibition called "Naples in Paris: The Louvre Hosts the Museo di Capodimonte" from June 2023 to January 2024. Sixty major masterpieces from the Museo di Capodimonte were on loan for the exhibition. Acclaimed photographer Robert Polidori was granted exclusive access to the preparations of the exhibition, capturing the process and inner workings of the arrival, set-up, and display of the artworks in a unique publication.

Format: Hardback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 20 February 2024
Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications

From June 2023 to January 2024, the Musée du Louvre in Paris hosted sixty major masterpieces from the Museo di Capodimonte, on loan for the exhibition Naples in Paris: The Louvre Hosts the Museo di Capodimonte. The former Italian royal palace, which once served as a hunting lodge for Bourbon monarchs, is now one of the largest museums in Italy holding one of the continents most important collections of Italian paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Among the artworks featured are the famously enigmatic Antea by Parmigianino, a poignant painting of the Crucifixion by Masaccio, The Transfiguration of Christ by Giovanni Bellini, and preparatory cartoons by Raphael and Michelangelo.

On the occasion of this historic artistic exchange, acclaimed photographer Robert Polidori was granted exclusive access to the preparations of the exhibition in the Louvres prestigious Grand Galerie. Known for his unique images of architecture and interiors, Polidori exquisitely captures the process and inner workings of the arrival, set-up, and display of the artworks. Part photography monograph, part art history book, this unique publication reveals the hidden workings behind one of the most significant collaborative efforts among major museums in recent years.

The exhibition, curated by the Louvre and the Museo di Capodimonte, showcased the artistic connections between Naples and Paris, highlighting the shared heritage and cultural exchange between the two cities. The exhibition featured works by artists such as Caravaggio, Titian, and Rubens, who were influenced by the artistic traditions of Naples and who had a significant impact on the development of French art. The exhibition also included a series of interactive installations and multimedia displays that allowed visitors to explore the historical and cultural context of the artworks.

The preparations for the exhibition were a complex and meticulous process, involving the transportation of the artworks from Naples to Paris, the installation of the exhibition spaces, and the careful preparation of the artworks for display. The exhibition was organized into six sections, each focusing on a different theme or period of artistic development. The Grand Galerie, which houses the Louvres collections of French art from the 14th to the 18th century, was transformed into a stunning exhibition space, with high ceilings, dim lighting, and a sense of intimacy that allowed visitors to immerse themselves in the artworks.

One of the highlights of the exhibition was the opportunity to see the artworks up close and personal, and to learn about the techniques and materials used by the artists. The exhibition also included a series of lectures and workshops that were led by experts in the field, who provided insights into the historical and cultural significance of the artworks.

In conclusion, the Naples in Paris exhibition at the Louvre was a stunning success, and it was a testament to the power of collaboration and cultural exchange. The exhibition showcased the rich artistic heritage of Naples and the Museo di Capodimonte, and it provided a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the connections between the two cities. The preparations for the exhibition were a remarkable achievement, and they were a testament to the dedication and expertise of the Louvre and the Museo di Capodimonte.

Weight: 1274g
Dimension: 349 x 296 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780847873913