Book Celebrates 124 Years of Galleria Russo, Italy's Oldest Modern Art Gallery

A new book, 'Oltre un secolo di storia della Galleria Russo' by Francesca Romana Morelli, published by Maretti Editore, commemorates 124 years of Galleria Russo in Rome. The volume contains over 400 pages of documents, unpublished letters, and historical photographs, highlighting the gallery's long relationship with Metaphysical artist Giorgio de Chirico. The gallery, founded by Pasquale Addeo in the late 19th century, began as a small antique shop on Via Margutta. Addeo later opened the first gallery on Via del Babuino 75, known as 'Il Budello,' selling furniture, ceramics, and paintings by artists including Titian and the Macchiaioli. The Russo family expanded by opening branches in spa towns like Montecatini Terme to attract wealthy clients. In 1954, de Chirico signed a contract to deliver 10 paintings and 40 watercolors monthly, a deal that ended when his wife Isabella discovered his affair with his muse. Nevertheless, the relationship continued covertly. Current director Fabrizio Russo initially considered canceling the book's presentation due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict but decided to proceed, stating that 'art and culture go beyond' fear and pettiness.