Genoa Exhibition Revives 19th-Century Painter Nicolò Barabino
The Museo Diocesano in Genoa is currently featuring an exhibit titled "Sacro & Pop," highlighting the works of 19th-century artist Nicolò Barabino, who lived from 1832 to 1891. Barabino, originally from Sampierdarena, trained at the Accademia Ligustica and was influenced by Raphael and the Macchiaioli while in Rome and Florence. Among his significant pieces is a Madonna originally created for Santa Maria della Cella, which he initially rejected but later showcased at the 1887 International Exhibition in Venice, where it was purchased by Queen Margherita of Savoy for 7,000 lire. The exhibit runs through February 23, 2026.
Key facts
- Nicolò Barabino (1832–1891) was born in Sampierdarena, now a district of Genoa.
- He studied at the Accademia Ligustica di Genova and traveled to Rome and Florence.
- In 1886 he painted a Madonna for Santa Maria della Cella in Sampierdarena.
- The painting was exhibited at the Mostra Internazionale di Venezia in 1887.
- Queen Margherita of Savoia bought the painting for 7,000 lire.
- The original was lost after World War II.
- A replica, called 'Madonna dell’Ulivo,' was installed in the parish church on October 21, 1888.
- The painting was reproduced by Minghetti and Ginori manufactories.
- In 1991, a bronze relief by Enrico Pandiani based on the Madonna was placed in Linate airport chapel.
- The exhibition at Museo Diocesano di Genoa runs until February 23, 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Nicolò Barabino
- Raffaello
- Carlotta Popert
- Sergio Rebora
- Enrico Pandiani
- Lilli Ghio
- Paola Martini
- Caterina Olcese Spingardi
Institutions
- Accademia Ligustica di Genova
- Museo Diocesano di Genova
- Santa Maria della Cella
- Villa Reale di Monza
- Mostra Internazionale di Venezia
- Minghetti
- Ginori
Locations
- Genoa
- Italy
- Sampierdarena
- Rome
- Florence
- Venezia
- Monza
- Milan
- Linate airport