Grand Tour Exhibition at Gallerie d'Italia Milano Showcases 130 Works

Gallerie d'Italia in Milan presents a comprehensive exhibition on the Grand Tour, the 18th- and 19th-century phenomenon that made Italy a mandatory destination for European elites, artists, musicians, and writers. The show assembles 130 artworks that trace the evolution of taste, mercantile dynamics, and the multiple facets of the Grand Tour—from classical inspiration and archaeological discoveries to romantic sublime and picturesque stereotypes. The exhibition is organized in thematic sections: an introductory hall with classical pieces and original antiquities, a chapter on Canova's fame, and dedicated rooms for key destinations (Rome, Florence, Naples, Venice). Italian landscapes range from realism to idyllic visions, culminating in a section on Vesuvius and the sublime. Romantic ruins and a 'travelers and collectors' section feature celebratory yet artistically autonomous portraits by Pompeo Batoni. The show also explores the picturesque view of Italian people, mythologizing innate beauty and 'naivety.' Artists include Canova, Piranesi, Canaletto, Batoni, Angelica Kauffman, and Ingres. The exhibition is dense and richly detailed, though its complex structure may challenge visitors. Notably, works on loan from Russian museums are due to be withdrawn imminently, so early visits are recommended to see the full display.