Rare Caravaggio Portrait Displayed Publicly for the First Time in Rome

The newly authenticated portrait of Maffeo Barberini, future Pope Urban VIII, will be exhibited at Palazzo Barberini for three months before returning to private ownership.

• The painting, titled 'Portrait of Maffeo Barberini,' was authenticated in 1963 but has remained in private hands since its discovery over 60 years ago.
• This portrait is one of the few surviving works by Caravaggio and showcases his signature chiaroscuro technique and expressive hand gestures.
• The exhibition, titled 'Caravaggio - The Portrait Unveiled,' will run from November 23, 2024, to February 23, 2025, at Palazzo Barberini in Rome.
• Maffeo Barberini, depicted in the painting, was a wealthy intellectual and patron of the arts who later became Pope Urban VIII and supported artists like Bernini.
• Art historians highlight the painting's unique details, including Barberini's intense gaze and the dynamic right-hand gesture reminiscent of Caravaggio's 'The Calling of Saint Matthew.'

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