The Art of Experiment: Parmigianino at the Courtauld

The Courtauld presents a stunning catalogue of works by Renaissance artist Parmigianino, including his famous painting of the Virgin and Child and drawn studies for his most ambitious projects. The collection comprises twenty-four sheets, with new photography and technical examinations revealing two new drawings previously unknown. Parmigianino was a pioneer of etching in Italy and a master of the chiaroscuro woodcut technique, producing innovative works that were studied and admired by artists and collectors for many years.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 28 March 2022
Publisher: Paul Holberton Publishing Ltd

The Courtauld's Outstanding Collection of Works by Renaissance Artist Girolamo Francesco Maria Mazzola, Better Known as Parmigianino

The Courtauld presents an exceptional collection of works by Renaissance artist Girolamo Francesco Maria Mazzola, renowned as Parmigianino (1503-1540). This captivating catalogue accompanies a remarkable display of Parmigianino's artistic prowess, showcasing his renowned and enigmatic painting of the Virgin and Child, as well as detailed drawn studies for his ambitious projects, including the Madonna of the Long Neck and the frescoes of the church of Santa Maria della Steccata in Parma. The latter was Parmigianino's final and most significant commission, intended to be his triumphant homecoming. However, his pursuit of experimental processes led to his brief imprisonment for breach of contract.

At the core of Parmigianino's artistic identity, he was a masterful draftsman, tirelessly drawing throughout his relatively short life. Approximately one thousand of his drawings have survived, providing a profound insight into his creative process. The Courtauld's collection comprises twenty-four sheets, and in preparation for this catalogue, extensive photography and technical examinations have been conducted on all the works. These examinations have revealed two previously unknown drawings, concealed beneath their historic mounts. Furthermore, they have facilitated a better understanding of the connections between some of the drawings and the finished paintings for which they were conceived.

The catalogue showcases the entirety of the Courtauld collection, which includes two paintings and over ten prints. Parmigianino, as a printmaker, holds a significant place in Italian art history as the pioneer of etching techniques in the country. He was also a trailblazer in the chiaroscuro woodcut technique, renowned for his refined and graceful compositions. Parmigianino's works garnered immense appreciation from his contemporaries and were celebrated by the artist and biographer Giorgio Vasari (1511-74).

The curation of this catalogue and display has been meticulous, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of Parmigianino's artistic legacy. The Courtauld's commitment to presenting the finest works of art to the public is evident in this remarkable exhibition, which invites viewers to immerse themselves in the world of Parmigianino and his profound contributions to Renaissance art.

Dimension: 260 x 216 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913645229