Antiques Biennale in Florence, Italy : Entry 10 euros, View Priceless
From September 26-October 4, 2009, the La Biennale dell’Antiquariato di Firenze or Florence Antique Biennale will once again thrill the art world elite and lucky visitors to this beautiful city. The oldest consistently running art and antiques fair in Europe, it began in 1959 when Mario and Giuseppe Bellini thought to present what woudl become the the most important antiques event in Italy and one of the most significant in the world.
This year it takes place at the luxurious Palazzo Corsini sull’Arno, home of the most important private collection in Florence. The Corsini collection was begun by the nephew of Pope Clement XII, Don Lorenzo Corsini, in 1765 and comprises Italian and foreign 17th- century works, as well as paintings of the Florentine school ranging from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Masterpieces include the works of Italian masters such as Anton Domenico Gabbiani, Alessandro Gherardini and Pier Dandini.
From the glowing Aurora Gallery to the opulence of the Corsini family ballroom, simply the opportunity to view the palace makes a visit to the fair a must for not only art and antique aficionados, but architecture and history buffs as well.
If you're in shopping mode, this year the Biennale will host 90 of the most prestigious international art dealers: 72 from Italy and 18 from countries such as France, Spain, England, Sweden, the Principality of Monaco and the United States. Sculptural works in coral will play a prominent role in the offerings.
Fine art and antiquities are a big, important business in Italy, and authentication of provenance and verification of value are critical to the high-dollar buyers who will be in attendance. Therefore, the Florence Antique Biennale has set up a Scientific Committee to check the authenticity of the works on display, their conservation and correct attribution. Additionally, two committees, the first appointed by the Florence Exports Office, and the second sent by the Ministry for the Cultural Heritage, will examine the art works submitted to them by potential buyers and determine their suitability for export.
During this time period, other special events such as a film festival of art history documentaries, will be going on around Florence. The Florence Antique Biennale takes place from 10:30am to 8pm daily. Tickets are €10 per person, and there is a reduced price for visitors presenting a valid Trenitalia rail ticket (if you're traveling in by train from Rome).
For a real treat, purchase tickets and hobnob with the dignitaries and European celebs who are bound to be there. For more information, visit www.mostraantiquariato.it
