15th-Century Fresco Discovered in Rome's Palazzo Nardini
A late 15th-century fresco depicting the Feast of Belshazzar has been uncovered in Palazzo Nardini, Rome, during a restoration led by professor Antonio Forcellino. The monochrome green work, executed in terre pigments, reflects the cardinal's required sobriety and is a rare iconography linked to anti-Turkish propaganda. The fresco dates before 1477, as indicated by graffiti, and may be by Melozzo da Forlì, active in Rome at the time. The discovery fills a gap in knowledge of Roman Quattrocento art and cardinalatial decorum. The restoration, involving Forcellino's architect wife, aims to complete by 2025. The fresco was hidden after a 1541 collapse and subsequent walling-up, escaping Vasari's notice. The project also revealed traces of other decorated rooms, now lost. The fresco's quality and political message make it a key find for studies of the period.
Key facts
- Fresco discovered in Palazzo Nardini, Rome, during restoration by Antonio Forcellino.
- Depicts the Feast of Belshazzar from the Old Testament.
- Monochrome green technique using inexpensive earth pigments, reflecting cardinalatial sobriety.
- Dated before 1477 based on graffiti found on the surface.
- Attribution tentatively to Melozzo da Forlì, active in Rome at the time.
- Fresco was hidden after a 1541 collapse and subsequent walling-up.
- Not mentioned by Vasari, as it was already forgotten by the 16th century.
- Restoration project aims to complete by 2025.
- The fresco is considered a political manifesto against the Turkish threat.
- The discovery opens new insights into Roman Quattrocento art and cardinalatial culture.
Entities
Artists
- Antonio Forcellino
- Melozzo da Forlì
- Perugino
- Michelangelo
- Raphael
- Tintoretto
- Rembrandt
- Maria Forcellino
Institutions
- Palazzo Nardini
- Palazzo Alberini
- Artribune
- Ricerche di storia dell'arte
Locations
- Rome
- Italy
- via del Governo Vecchio
- via di Parione