Where can I see the original Saint Francis in Meditation painting?

The original painting is housed at Palazzo Barberini, home of the National Gallery of Ancient Art in Rome, where it is kept in storage under the care of the Soprintendenza. The work is owned by the Ministry of the Interior's Religious Buildings Fund, so you may want to contact the museum in advance to confirm viewing availability.

What is the history of the Saint Francis in Meditation painting discovered in Carpineto Romano?

The painting was discovered in 1968 in Carpineto Romano, where it had been nailed to the wall of St. Peter's church. After its discovery, the canvas was transported to Rome and underwent extensive restoration work that confirmed its authenticity as a work by Caravaggio or his close circle.

Is there another version of Saint Francis in Meditation I can visit in Rome?

Yes, there is a famous double of the painting housed in the Roman church of Santa Maria della Concezione, which is recognized as the work of a close follower of Caravaggio. This version is more accessible to visitors than the original, which is in storage at Palazzo Barberini.

How do I visit Palazzo Barberini to see the restored Caravaggio painting?

Palazzo Barberini, located in Rome, is home to the National Gallery of Ancient Art and houses the original Saint Francis in Meditation in its storage collection. Since the painting is in storage rather than on permanent public display, it's advisable to contact the museum beforehand to arrange a viewing or inquire about its exhibition status.

Why was the Saint Francis painting's authenticity questioned before restoration?

The painting's condition when discovered—nailed to a church wall in Carpineto Romano—raised questions about its origins and authenticity. The florid restorations performed after its transport to Rome provided evidence that officially confirmed it as a genuine work by Caravaggio or his immediate circle.

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Art, Theaters and Museums 📍 Roma, Italy 157 views

St. Francis in meditation

Photo · Smita K.

St. Francis in meditation — Roma, Italy.

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About St. Francis in meditation

St. Francis in meditation - Roma | Secret World Trip Planner

In Carpineto Romano in 1968 the "Saint Francis in Meditation" was discovered, of which there is also a famous double in the Roman church of Santa Maria della Concezione (whose hand is now recognized as that of a close follower of Caravaggio). At the time of its discovery, the canvas was nailed to the wall of St. Peter's church; taken to Rome, it underwent florid restorations that made its authenticity official. Owned by the Ministry of the Interior's Religious Buildings Fund, the work was consigned to the Soprintendenza in storage at Palazzo Barberini, home of the National Gallery of Ancient Art.

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St. Francis in meditation