Musei Vaticani III, Galleria dei Candelabri

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 “Musei Vaticani III, Galleria dei Candelabri” captures the opulent elegance and rich historical ambiance of the Gallery of the Candelabra in the Vatican Museums. This photograph showcases a space renowned for its intricate decorations, luxurious furnishings, and historical artifacts.

The Galleria dei Candelabri, or Gallery of the Candelabra, is a long corridor adorned with classical sculptures, ornate candelabras, and intricate frescoes. Originally an open loggia, it was enclosed in the late 18th century under Pope Pius VI to protect its artistic treasures from the elements. The gallery is divided into six sections by arches and richly decorated with marble columns, stuccoes, and detailed ceilings.

Listri’s photograph captures the depth and grandeur of this gallery. The corridor’s length is accentuated by the repeating arches and the interplay of light and shadow, creating a sense of endless space. The luxurious marble columns, from which the gallery takes its name, are prominent, each paired with an exquisite candelabrum. These candelabras, adorned with mythological figures and intricate designs, are masterpieces in their own right, adding to the gallery’s opulence.

The walls and ceilings of the Galleria dei Candelabri are lavishly decorated with frescoes and stucco work, showcasing a blend of classical and Renaissance artistry. The frescoes depict a range of subjects, from mythological scenes to elaborate decorative motifs, enhancing the gallery’s rich visual tapestry. The light filtering through the windows illuminates these details, bringing the colors and textures to life.

In the photograph, Listri’s lens expertly captures the intricate interplay of architectural elements and decorative art. The symmetrical composition and the corridor’s vanishing point draw the viewer’s eye through the space, inviting a deeper appreciation of the gallery’s artistic and historical significance.

The Galleria dei Candelabri is not only a showcase of artistic splendor but also a testament to the Vatican’s role as a custodian of cultural heritage. Through Listri’s photograph, viewers are invited to experience the grandeur and beauty of this historic gallery, appreciating its role in preserving and celebrating the art and culture of past civilizations.

Listri’s “Musei Vaticani III, Galleria dei Candelabri” thus becomes more than a mere depiction of a museum corridor; it is a window into the rich tapestry of history, art, and architecture that defines the Vatican Museums.