Later this month, the Dante Alighieri Monaco association will fuse art with history at an engaging event exploring the life of Renaissance rebel Benvenuto Cellini, and featuring art historian Alessandro Masi.
The Monaco-based branch of the Dante Alighieri association is set to host an enlightening event exploring the life of “Renaissance rebel” Benvenuto Cellini under the distinguished patronage of Princess Caroline of Hanover and the Italian Embassy in Monaco at the Auditorium Rainier III later this month.
The key speaker of the evening will be Alessandro Masi, the esteemed Secretary-General of Dante Alighieri of Rome and a respected art historian, writer and journalist, who will delve into the enigmatic and tumultuous life of Benvenuto Cellini, as chronicled in his latest book, ‘Vita Maledetta di Benvenuto Cellini’.
The life of a Renaissance rebel
Benvenuto Cellini, born in Florence in 1500, was a master goldsmith and sculptor whose works, such as the Saliera created for King Francis I of France and his renowned bronze Perseus with the head of Medusa, have left an indelible mark on art history.
Cellini’s life was anything but ordinary. Often described as a “cursed” artist, his vibrant and violent life was riddled with brawls, murders and even a dramatic escape from Castel Sant’Angelo, where he had been imprisoned. His participation in the armed defence of Rome during the Sack of 1527 further adds layers to his complex character.
An evening of art and drama
The event, taking place on 15th December, will begin at 7pm, with doors opening at 6.30pm. Art expert Alfredo Pallesi will open the evening and set the stage for an immersive journey into the Renaissance era. Following this, celebrated Italian actor Remo Girone, known for his role in ‘La Piovra’, will grace the event with dramatic readings that will bring Cellini’s story to life.
The event will also serve as a platform to announce the upcoming events for the 2024 season of the Dante Alighieri Committee of Monaco.
The evening will conclude with a cocktail reception, offering attendees an opportunity to discuss the insights gained and network with fellow art and history enthusiasts. Admission to this event is free, but seating is limited so interested individuals are encouraged to confirm their attendance before 12th December by emailing info.dantemc@gmail.com.
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Photo source: Ali Nuredini, Unsplash