Presumed Caravaggio Painting Discovered at Madrid Auction for €1,500

A painting attributed to Caravaggio, estimated at just €1,500, was withdrawn from an Ansorena auction in Madrid after experts flagged it as a possible authentic work by the master. The oil-on-canvas, titled 'L'incoronazione di spine' (The Crowning with Thorns), measures 111 x 86 cm and was initially catalogued as from the circle of José Ribera. Art historian Cristina Terzaghi, a Caravaggio specialist from Roma Tre University, examined the work in person and believes it is a genuine Caravaggio from his Neapolitan period (late 1606). She noted that dealers Fabrizio Moretti and Marco Voena shared her impression. The painting matches descriptions in a 1657 inventory of Viceroy García Avellaneda y Haro, Duke of Castrillo, which lists a Caravaggio 'Ecce Homo' of slightly larger dimensions. The viceroy brought many masterpieces to Spain in 1659, including works by Raphael and Caravaggio. The same painting appears in a 1631 inventory of Juan de Lezcano, Spanish ambassador to the Holy See. The Spanish Ministry of Culture, alerted by the Museo del Prado, declared the work non-exportable. The Comunidad de Madrid may declare it a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC), allowing state preemption. Terzaghi called for its protection and restoration, noting its fair condition but need for cleaning. The auction house confirmed the lot was withdrawn and that experts are studying the painting. Only three Caravaggios are in Spanish museums: at the Thyssen, Palacio Real, and Prado.