An exhibition at the Wallace Collection in London, titled “Keeping Time: Clocks by Boulle,” showcases five exquisite Baroque clocks designed by Parisian craftsman André-Charles Boulle. Boulle, a prominent cabinetmaker for Louis XIV, transformed technical innovations like the pendulum into remarkable works of art. His clocks, crafted with meticulous marquetry and gilt bronze, reflect 18th-century luxury and artistry while often depicting themes of love and the passage of time through figures like Venus and Father Time. The exhibition runs until March 2, 2025, and also features Enlightenment artworks that resonate with the same themes.

This exhibition focuses on the innovative link between artistry and technical precision in timekeeping through the works of André-Charles Boulle, noted for his elaborate designs. Boulle’s clocks serve not just as timekeeping devices but as statements of wealth and artistry, merging craftsmanship with themes stretching from antiquity to the Baroque spectacle. The context of the Enlightenment era enhances understanding of these works, illustrating a period of significant artistic and technological advancement.

Boulle’s clocks exemplify a unique blend of intricate design and mechanical precision, embodying the opulence of 18th-century France. The exhibition at the Wallace Collection not only highlights these luxurious timepieces but also places them within the larger artistic narrative of the Enlightenment, inviting visitors to reflect on the interplay between time, art, and life. This exploration runs until early 2025, providing ample opportunity for engagement with these historical treasures.

Original Source: www.smithsonianmag.com

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A stunning restoration has brought back to public view Parmigianino’s 16th-century altarpiece, “The Madonna and Child With Saints,” displayed at London’s National Gallery. Created during the experimental Mannerist movement, this 12-foot-tall work features a unique portrayal of St. Jerome asleep on the ground, a choice that has puzzled experts. The exhibition coincides with the gallery’s 200th anniversary, showcasing both the painting and Parmigianino’s preparatory sketches that highlight the artist’s dynamic creative process.

Originally commissioned by the Church of San Salvatore in Rome, the artwork was concealed for safekeeping following its creation amidst the turmoil of the 1527 sack of Rome. It remained out of sight for a decade due to restoration efforts. Matthias Wivel, the gallery’s curator, expressed excitement about sharing this “masterwork” with the public again, celebrating its visionary qualities.

Parmigianino’s innovative style offers a juxtaposition to the realism established by earlier Renaissance masters like Michelangelo. His deliberate distortions and exaggerated forms characterize Mannerism, marking him as a leading figure of the movement. Critics have described the painting as “wild” and “quirky,” noting its ability to engage viewers increasingly with closer observation. This renewed allure has transformed the piece’s prior perception from a mere outdated relic to a vibrant highlight of the gallery’s collection, now full of vivid details.

The painting, “The Madonna and Child With Saints,” was created by Parmigianino, a significant figure of the Mannerist movement in the early 1500s. Mannerism emerged as a response to the balanced realism of the Renaissance, characterised by elongated forms, distorted proportions, and unusual perspectives. Parmigianino’s work is noted for its unique compositions and imaginative interpretations of religious subjects, notably the unusual depiction of St. Jerome. The National Gallery in London aims to highlight both the restored painting and the artist’s preparatory sketches, offering insights into his creative techniques and vision.

The restoration of Parmigianino’s altarpiece has not only revived an important work of Mannerist art but has also enhanced its visibility and appreciation within the context of the National Gallery’s collection. The exhibition invites viewers to explore the complexities of this remarkable painting and the innovative artistic practices of its creator. Featuring both the altarpiece and sketches, it promises to provide a new understanding of Parmigianino’s vibrant artistry.

Original Source: www.smithsonianmag.com

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