“Precious gifts”: the travelling exhibition is now on at the Caldes Castle

This exhibition presents a comprehensive selection of precious works of art from the Buonconsiglio Castle museum collection, all united by one common theme: that of the gift as portrayed in art.  Starting from the emblematic image of the Three Graces, the ancient symbol of “giving, receiving and reciprocating”, there follow objects wrought in glass, ceramic, porcelain, ivory and silver as well as textiles, carvings and paintings, all of which are presented as key to an understanding of a society that used gifts as tokens of both private affection and as instruments of delicate diplomatic relations between regal dynasties and aristocratic houses, as individual manifestations of hospitality and of Christian values.

A journey through time, then, and an insight into some of the more significant customs of the past, from nuptial gifts, such as the priceless chalice in Murano milk glass, the carved dowry chests, delicate fans and elegant medallions, to Christening presents for the first-born, and to gifts catering to new social customs such as luxurious snuffboxes and the small yet beguiling tobacco graters.

Objects, both beautiful and at times intriguing for our time, represent a ‘culture of giving’ that the unsuspecting benefactors have left behind them for posterity,  alongside which are placed paintings such as the Three Wise Men or the shepherds offering their symbolic gifts to the infant Jesus, or Saint Martin offering his cloak to the pauper.  These are but a few of the works of art that can be seen until 18 October 2015.

It’s also an opportunity to preview the Caldes Castle, while waiting for the restoration works to end. Located in the town of Caldes, the castle was built during the 13th and 17th century. The castle’s architecture is a combination of Venetian, German and Lombard cultures which is typical of this area that was at the border of the Prince-Bishopric of Trento. This large 5 storey, 13th century tower house was built by the Cagnò family in 1464 and then given to the Thun family; during the 19th century it was bought by a local family and today it is owned by the Autonomous Province of Trento that restored the castle and turned it into a prestigious venue for temporary exhibits and cultural events.

In summer 2015 the castle can be visited partially (due to restoration works) with free entrance, while waiting for its official opening.

Source www.buonconsiglio.it / www.valdisole.it