In a significant cultural move, a 600-year-old terracotta relief of the Madonna, long adorning the streets of Florence, has been relocated to the Bargello Museum. The masterpiece, initially created over six centuries ago, was officially attributed to the renowned Renaissance sculptor Donatello in 2009.

Previously hanging in the heart of Florence, this terracotta Madonna has been a source of inspiration for generations of residents. In 2009, scholars confirmed its association with Donatello, shedding new light on its historical significance. Following this revelation, the original owners of the building decided to sell the artwork to Rome.

In a unique gesture, the building owners commissioned a copy of the relief to maintain the continuity of the iconic view for newcomers to the street. The relocation of the original piece to the Bargello Museum marks a historic transition, preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage attributed to Donatello.

Reflecting a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages, religious artworks, including Donatello’s Madonna, served as guardians watching over the streets and homes they adorned. Enrico Minelli, the lawyer representing the sculptor’s previous owner, emphasized the uniqueness of Florence, where encountering a Donatello while strolling through the streets is a distinct possibility.

Now housed in the prestigious Bargello Museum, Donatello’s Madonna takes its place among other precious artifacts, further enriching the museum’s already distinguished collection. This relocation not only safeguards the artwork but also provides visitors with a deeper appreciation of Florence’s artistic legacy, bringing the timeless beauty of Donatello’s creation to a broader audience within the museum’s walls.