Superb Line: Prints and Drawings from Genoa 1500–1800

Beautiful exhibition at the British Museum focusing on works on paper from Genoa.

The title came from Petrach’s description of the city as ‘La Superba’ or The Proud which I thought was a lovely play on words. The commentary explains how the city attracted artists with the arrival of one of Raphael’s pupils, Perino del Vaga, but has been largely overshadowed by Venice.

The show consisted of a large selection of prints and drawings which were well explained. I think my favourite was Giovanni Batista Castello’s “Ulysses in the Gardens of King Alanous’ Palace” from about 1550. I loved Luca Cambiaso’s simple but expressive pieces.

Among the explanations were some fascinating stories such as how Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione’s invented the monotype print and a nobleman artist who murdered a fellow noble in self-defence and had to flee to Florence.

There was also a section on Flemish artists who came to the city including a wonderful sketchbook of genre scenes by Cornelius Wael.

As you know I love the Renaissance and this show added yet another layer to it.

Closes 1 April 2024


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