This splendid little painting shows the archangel Michael, who is identified by his attributes, the sword, scales and armour, sitting down after defeating the devil, who lies crushed at his feet. The work came to the Ambrosiana only in the early twentieth century and we do not know who commissioned it. It should however be recalled that Giulio Cesare Procaccini played a very important role in the artistic reform promoted by Federico Borromeo, who entrusted him with some important works, including some of the quadroni of the cycle of miracles of Saint Charles Borromeo made for the Duomo. Even though this painting is small and possibly a study for an altarpiece, it clearly reveals the talent and inventiveness of this brilliant artist.
An itinerary through the treasures of the Biblioteca Ambrosiana curated by Federico Gallo and Stefano Martinelli Tempesta | Pinacoteca, rooms 2 and 3
From April 15, on the occasion of Design Week, the rooms of the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana will host 'Moleskine Detour', an international exhibition promoted by Moleskine and the Moleskine Foundation.
Recovery of the functionality of the balconies of the Sala Federiciana, Borromeo and della Rosa through the installation of lifelines
Every Saturday at 15.30 a guided tour of the masterpieces of the Pinacoteca, together with professional guides of our official partner AdArtem
