Orazio Gentileschi and Caravaggio's Legacy in Fabriano

In Fabriano, the exhibition 'La luce e i silenzi' reunites Caravaggesque artists active in the 17th century, led by Orazio Gentileschi. Curated by Anna Maria Ambrosini Massari and Alessandro Delpriori, it is staged at the Spedale del Buon Gesù, home of the Pinacoteca Civica, and extends to the Cathedral of San Venanzio and Church of San Benedetto. About fifty works come from a capillary survey of the Marche region, including small towns like Piandimeleto, Ripatransone, Apiro, and Monte Vidon Combatte. The exhibition concludes the 'Mostrare le Marche' project, promoted by the Region to enhance cultural heritage in areas hit by the 2016 earthquake. It is divided into thematic sections, starting with the grafting of Caravaggism via Pomarancio at the Loreto sanctuary, then exploring figures of Mary Magdalene and Saint Charles Borromeo, and highlighting the dialogue between Gentileschi and Giovanni Francesco Guerrieri. Large-format altarpieces include Gentileschi's 'Circoncisione' from the Church of Gesù in Ancona. Research led to new insights: from comparing facial features in Gentileschi's cartoons, dating is hypothesized; in the 'Circoncisione', scholar Lucia Panetti identified the face of young Artemisia Gentileschi among the angel musicians; and the artist known as 'Master of the Incredulity of Saint Thomas' was named Bartolomeo Mendozzi, present with two paintings. The exhibition is a rigorous scientific effort that values local treasures.