RAPHAEL AND THE DOMUS AUREA: THE INVENTION OF THE GROTESQUE

A new exhibition is coming in the year 2020, as the 500th anniversary of the death of Raphael is remembered, that will delve into the ‘grotesque’ style rediscovered by Raphael and other Renaissance artists in the 16th century. Referring to bizarre, fantastic and hideous decorations, the english ‘grotesque’ comes from the french ‘grottesca’ (of a cave) and the italian grotto (cave). These decorations covered the Domus Aurea of Nero, which was buried for centuries until they were rediscovered. Artists such as Pintoricchio and Signorelli would descend into the caves with torches in order to admire the ancient decorations. The exhibition will take place in the octagonal hall and other rooms that are still decorated with the precious frescoes. The multimedia exhibition will include video mapping that recontrust the work of Raphael as well as animations and digital scenographies.