From repository to museum: paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries

In 2024, an additional section dedicated to works from the 15th and 16th centuries previously stored in the repositories will be opened in the restored spaces of the former Monte dei Pegni on the first floor (next to the conference room).

As a result of maintenance and restoration work and studies, seventeen paintings on panel and canvas have been added to the museum’s permanent collection in order to enhance its value and accessibility.

Aside from providing insight into lesser-known artists, including Tommaso di Piero Trombetto, the 15th-century paintings also reveal Prato's cultural character shaped by its many workshops. These, primarily in Florence, contributed to the development of themes and stylistic modes derived from the greatest masters, especially by disseminating models and replicas of their works, particularly Domenico Ghirlandaio's workshop.

The collection of Sacred Families and Madonnas with Child from the 16th century is evidence of the cultural diversity and vibrancy of Prato's artistic community, which featured remarkable examples of Florentine art. However, the styles of Raphael and Andrea del Sarto was frequently reinterpreted in innovative ways; as was demonstrated by artists like Zanobi Poggini and Domenico Beceri.