A Lost Caravaggio Masterpiece Unveiled at Prado Museum in Madrid
In a stunning turn of events, a newly authenticated painting by the renowned 17th Century artist Caravaggio is set to go on display at the prestigious Prado museum in Madrid. The painting, titled Ecce Homo, depicts Roman governor Pontius Pilate presenting Christ to the people and is considered one of only about 60 known works by the Italian master.
The painting almost slipped through the cracks of the art world, initially being attributed to a lesser artist before its true identity was confirmed. In 2021, the Spanish government intervened just hours before the painting was set to be auctioned off, halting the sale and ultimately leading to its authentication.
Described by the Prado as “without a doubt, a Caravaggio masterpiece,” the painting is being hailed as one of the greatest discoveries in the history of art. Caravaggio, known for his dramatic use of light and shadow to bring depth to his scenes, is considered a pioneer of modern painting.
Ecce Homo is believed to have once belonged to the private collection of Spain’s King Philip IV before resurfacing in Madrid in 2021. After suspicions about its true authorship were raised, the Spanish culture ministry stepped in to block its sale.
The painting will be on display at the Prado museum until October in a special exhibition, after which it will join the museum’s permanent collection for an additional four months. Reports suggest that the painting was sold for a staggering €36 million to a British national living in Spain.
Jorge Coll, from the London art gallery Colnaghi, which handled the sale, confirmed that the painting will remain on loan to public collections, ensuring that this lost Caravaggio masterpiece will continue to be enjoyed by art enthusiasts for years to come.
