Hermitage San Pietroburgo VI

Signed, titled, dated and from edition of 5 on artist’s label on verso.

Available in 3 sizes: 100 x 120 cm. (39.4 x 47.2 in.), 120 x 150 cm. (47.2 x 59.1 in.), 180 x 225 cm. (70.9 x 88.6 in.)

Massimo Listri’s “Hermitage San Pietroburgo VI” offers a breathtaking view of the Raphael Loggias, a stunning example of neoclassical art and architecture commissioned by Empress Catherine II in the late 1780s. The Raphael Loggias are an exact replica of the gallery in the Papal Palace in Vatican City, embodying the grandeur and artistic excellence of the original.

The frescoes of the open loggias in the Papal Palace were painted based on sketches by the Renaissance master Raphael. Their copies, meticulously created in Italy by a group of artists under the supervision of Christopher Unterberger, were transported to St. Petersburg and installed in the Hermitage Museum in a gallery designed by the renowned architect Giacomo Quarenghi.

Listri’s photograph captures the intricate beauty of the Raphael Loggias, highlighting the stunning decorative elements that adorn the space. The vaults of the loggias are decorated with scenes from biblical stories, rendered with exquisite detail and vibrant colors. These scenes bring the spiritual narratives to life, creating a sense of awe and reverence.

The walls of the loggias are covered with paintings featuring ornamentation motifs known as “grotesques.” These elaborate designs, characterized by their whimsical and fantastical elements, add a layer of artistic richness to the space. The interplay of light and shadow in Listri’s photograph enhances the depth and texture of these decorations, drawing the viewer’s eye to the intricate details and masterful craftsmanship.

Through Listri’s lens, the Raphael Loggias are presented not just as a remarkable architectural achievement but as a testament to the enduring legacy of Renaissance art and its influence on subsequent generations. The photograph invites viewers to appreciate the harmonious blend of artistic and architectural elements, offering a window into the cultural heritage preserved within the walls of the Hermitage Museum.