Un parere giuridico su Raffaello. Nuovi documenti sul trasporto della Visitazione da L’Aquila a Madrid

Abstract

The Visitation by Raphael, currently housed in the Museo del Prado, originated from the Branconio chapel in the Church of San Silvestro in L’Aquila. The details of how the painting was transported to Spain were revealed in unpublished archival documents by Luigi Rivera in 1920. In 1655, the viceroy of Naples, Count of Castrillo, planned to send the artwork to Philip IV of Spain. However, as the painting was considered part of the church’s possessions, the Sacra Congregazione dell’Immunità had imposed a veto in 1643, preventing its removal without the Pope’s consent. Additionally, the Branconio family, which still owned the Visitation in the 17th century, and the canons of the collegiate church had rights over the work. To circumvent these obstacles, Castrillo developed a strategy. This article aims to introduce new unpublished documentation that fills in the gaps in Rivera’s research. Specifically, this paper will discuss the family’s deed of donation, which included a requirement to have a copy of the work made by a renowned artist, the endorsement by the canons of the collegiate church, and a legal document proving that the Visitation could be moved without the Pope’s consent. Furthermore, the article will delve into the political significance the artwork held in 17th century diplomatic relations between Naples, Rome, and Madrid.