La Primavera del Rinascimento (
The Springtime of the Renaissance)
is attracting a lot of attention. This ambitious show at Palazzo Strozzi in Florence runs from 23 March until 18 August 2013 (
link). Its goal is to redefine our perception of the artistic culture of the emerging renaissance, focusing specifically on the role of sculptural production as a creative force in the early
quattrocento.
Donatello’s monumental bronze sculpture of Saint Louis of Toulouse is one of the many highlights of this exhibition—newly restored by Dr. Maria Ludovica Nicolai of Florence. Over the years, Ludovica has brought her skills and expertise to many celebrated masterpieces in bronze, including Lorenzo Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise and Donatello’s David. Along the way, she has enjoyed a privileged intimacy with these and other works—developing unique insights into the artists’ methods and intentions.
Leading restorers like Ludovica have much to tell us, beyond what we read in published technical reports. Three Pipe Problem is hence delighted to present the following interview, allowing an exploration of the unique experiences of a restorer in her own words.
