Giuseppe Pellizza da Volpedo's 'Il Quarto Stato' Moves from Milan to Florence
The painting 'Il Quarto Stato' (1898-1901) by Giuseppe Pellizza da Volpedo is being temporarily exhibited at Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, having been loaned from the Museo del Novecento in Milan, coinciding with complimentary museum admissions on May Day. This 3x6-meter piece, emblematic of the Italian working class, was last relocated 14 years ago. It was carefully removed using a crane, then scanned, cleaned, and transported via a specialized truck. The no-cost loan stems from an agreement between Milan’s mayor, Giuseppe Sala, and Florence’s mayor, Dario Nardella, valid until June 30. An artwork of equal value will be sent to Milan in return. The relocation has generated debate regarding its display in Milan, with some criticizing the lighting, while others view it as a beneficial cultural partnership.
Key facts
- Giuseppe Pellizza da Volpedo's 'Il Quarto Stato' is loaned from Museo del Novecento, Milan to Palazzo Vecchio, Florence.
- The painting arrives for May Day, when museum visits are free.
- Last moved 14 years ago for a loan to Scuderie del Quirinale.
- Extracted by crane, underwent 3D scanning, cleaning, and special truck transport.
- Loan is free, part of an agreement between mayors Giuseppe Sala and Dario Nardella.
- Painting remains in Florence until June 30; an unspecified Florentine work will go to Milan.
- Acquired by Milan in 1920 via public subscription for 50,000 lire.
- Controversy over the move; current display niche under a spiral staircase is poorly lit.
Entities
Artists
- Giuseppe Pellizza da Volpedo
Institutions
- Museo del Novecento
- Palazzo Vecchio
- Scuderie del Quirinale
- Castello Sforzesco
- Palazzo Marino
- Galleria d'Arte Moderna
- Polo museale Otto/Novecentesco
Locations
- Milan
- Florence
- Piazza Duomo
- Salone dei Cinquecento
- Italy