In this painting, a sumptuously elegant drape is lifted to reveal a still life with musical instruments, with many symbolic meanings: on a table covered with a red cloth, the pattern of which is beautifully rendered, there is a spinet, on which an archlute and a musical score have been placed. In the middle ground, we see a violin with its bow and an apple, which creates a particular note of colour, and a mandora can be seen on the right. Scholars have pointed out how the instruments used are those required to perform a sonata for soloist and thorough-bass. It is also worth noting Baschenis’s technical skill in rendering the thin layer of dust on the mandora on the right. Dust shows that the instruments have not been used, suggesting the absence of music. The work thus acquires the significance of a vanitas, a reminder of the transience of life, and the silent instruments allude to the fleeting experience of our senses.
Annual international conference of the Society of Friends of Port-Royal is held, October 13-14 2023, Sala delle Accademie E.R. Galbiati.
An exhibition that aims at reconstructing the "considerable collection of books” belonging to Don Ferrante, which Alessandro Manzoni describes in the Promessi Sposi (The Bethroted).
The combo ticket Duomo + Ambrosiana is available in a new version which includes also the Ascent on foot to the Duomo terraces and access to the San Sepolcro Crypt.
Every Saturday at 15.30 a guided tour of the masterpieces of the Pinacoteca, together with professional guides of our official partner AdArtem
On Sunday October 1 and Monday October 2, free admission for all grandparents with their grandchildren
