“Dolci trionfi e finissime piegature”
Dolci trionfi e finissime piegature is the exhibition that take place at Palatina Gallery of Florence till June 7th and recreate wedding banquet of Maria de’ Medici and king Henry IV of France.
To set up the wedding banquet for the future queen of France was not so easy. But the Medici’s court, thanks to the work of florentine genius such as sculptors, scenographers, engeneers, artists and artisans, was able to surprise every monarchy family. Infact the wedding party of 5th October 1600 at Palazzo Vecchio for Maria de’Medici with Henry IV of France was a real triumph.
We are able to save the scent, the atmosphere and the marvel of this important event, thanks to the exhibition that will take place in Florence at Palatina Gallery of Pitti Palace till 7th June: “Dolci trionfi e finissime piegature. Sculture in zucchero e tovaglioli per le nozze fiorentine di Maria de’ Medici” (Sweet triumphs and very fine folds. Sculptures made by sugar and napkins for Maria de’ Medici’s florentine wedding), by Giovanna Giusti and Riccardo Spinelli.
It was possible to recreate the sumptuously decked table as much as possible similar to the original set up for this historical event, thanks to the detailed information and documents preserved at the Florentine Archivio di Stato. Between these very important were the set ups designed by Bernardo Buontalenti for the king table and for those of his guests. More over in the documents is highlighted how essential were the sugar sculptures, decorative food made as real art masterpieces. A lot of them were sculptured following the models made by important florentine sculptors: such as Gianbologna and Pietro Tacca.
The sugar sculptures performed for this event, some of them also of big sizes (for example Henry IV by horse was 115 cm high), or others inspired by the “The labours of Hercules”, or to the haunt and bucolic themes, will arouse the queen and her guests admiration. The florentine artisans had the opportunity to become famous between the most powerfull european families and to contribute to the success of the Medici’s court during this important political-diplomatic meeting.
The exhibition shows this extraordinary sugar golden and silver objects, set up on the dine table, close to the original made by bronze by Sarah and Giacomo Del Giudice, who in their foundry Strada in Chianti made these meltings following the traditional metal casting.
Another important aspect of this wedding were the napkins folds: wonderful creations thanks to florentine artist’s creativity. Also in this case are shown some samples made by catalan master Joan Sallas, a way to educate the public to an art that with this banquet saw its apogee.
Taking inspiration from this event the exhibition show similar products, crockery, cristal and stone objects used for other similar ceremonies, events and other official public performances (entrance to the city, processions etc) organized by gran ducal family for their important guests.
Dolci trionfi e finissime piegature
Where: Florence, Palatina Gallery (Palazzo Pitti) – Di Bona Room and other nearby rooms
Opening hours: from Tuesday to Sunday 8.15 am 6.50 pm Closed: on Monday
Tickets: 13,00€ full ticket – 6,50€ reduction
For more information:
http://www.uffizi.firenze.it/musei/?m=palatina
