What's Happening?
A rare 16th-century portrait by Sofonisba Anguissola, a prominent female Renaissance painter, has been rediscovered and is now on display at the Winter Show in New York. The painting, titled 'Portrait
of a Canon Regular' (1552), depicts a preacher with his hand on an open bible. It was unexpectedly found in a private collection in Durham, North Carolina, after being thought lost. The painting is one of fewer than 20 signed works by Anguissola and was previously known only through a black-and-white photo at the Frick Art Reference Library. The rediscovery was prompted by a lecture on Anguissola's work, leading the painting's owners to contact art experts. The painting is now being sold with an asking price of $450,000.
Why It's Important?
The rediscovery of this painting is significant as it adds to the limited body of work by Sofonisba Anguissola, a trailblazer for female artists during the Renaissance. Her works are highly valued for their historical and artistic importance, and this painting's emergence provides new insights into her early career. The sale of such a rare piece could influence the art market, particularly for works by female artists of the Renaissance, potentially increasing their visibility and value. This event also highlights the role of private collections in preserving art history and the potential for significant works to be uncovered in unexpected places.
What's Next?
The painting is currently on display at the Winter Show in New York, which runs through February 1. It is expected to attract significant interest from collectors and institutions, given its rarity and historical value. The sale of the painting could set a new benchmark for works by Anguissola, influencing future auctions and private sales. Additionally, the rediscovery may inspire further research into Anguissola's life and work, potentially leading to more discoveries of her art.
