Domenico Fontana exhibition in Mendrisio reveals overlooked Renaissance architect

The exhibition titled 'Le invenzioni di tante opere' at the Pinacoteca cantonale Giovanni Züst in Rancate (Mendrisio) showcases the work of Ticinese architect Domenico Fontana (1543–1607). Curated by Nicola Navone, Letizia Tedeschi, and Patrizia Tosini, with a catalog published by Officine librarie, the exhibit delves into Fontana's connections to figurative art, extending beyond his well-known architectural contributions. Renowned for the 1590 obelisk in St. Peter's Square and documented in 'Della Transportatione dell’obelisco Vaticano e delle fabriche di Sisto V', Fontana, originally from Melide, Switzerland, moved to Rome to work on significant projects for Cardinal Peretti, who later became Pope Sixtus V. After being accused of fraud following Peretti's death, he settled in Naples, where he passed away in 1607. The exhibition is divided into three sections focusing on his techniques and works.