Italian Culture Ministry Misdates Madonna Painting by 500 Years

Due to a misreading of an inscription, the Italian Ministry of Culture incorrectly assigned a date of 1850 to a Madonna and Child painting, when it should have been 1350. This artwork, attributed to the 'Master of 1302,' is now appraised by Christie's at €400,000–€500,000, a significant increase from its previous value of €38,000. The mistake originated in 2020 when the ministry classified it as 'minor importance' and permitted its export to Switzerland. Although restoration uncovered its actual age, the ministry's attempt to retract the export permit was unsuccessful in court. Opposition MP Vincenza Aloisio expressed criticism towards the ministry. Additionally, a US art teacher purchased a painting for under $100 in 1966, later recognized as Cadell's 'Interior: The Lady in Black,' which sold for £189,200. A nationwide strike in Italy's cultural sector is scheduled for Friday.