Rome, a city steeped in history, underwent a dramatic transformation after its declaration as the Capital of Italy. This period of modernization and urban renewal brought about a wave of change, impacting even the most ancient and prestigious structures. One such structure was the 16th-century Palazzo Sciarra Colonna di Carbognano, a majestic building nestled amidst the bustling streets of Rome.
A Visionary Project: Connecting the Past and Present
The Palazzo, situated near the iconic Trevi Fountain, underwent a complete renovation, its walls echoing the spirit of the era’s artistic movements. The ambitious project envisioned by Prince Maffeo Barberini-Colonna di Sciarra, a prominent figure in Italian society and a writer for the acclaimed magazines La Tribuna and La Cronaca Bizantina, aimed to connect the various activities taking place within the palace. A covered walkway, a feat of architectural brilliance, was designed to weave through the palace, creating a seamless flow between its diverse spaces.
A Jewel of Roman Art Nouveau
The culmination of this ambitious endeavor unveiled a masterpiece – a courtyard that became one of the most celebrated spaces in post-unification Rome. The courtyard, a dazzling showcase of Roman Art Nouveau, stood proudly within the majestic Palazzo Sciarra Colonna di Carbognano, a structure spanning the 16th and 17th centuries. The palace itself boasted one of the most striking entrance gates in Rome, a testament to the city’s architectural grandeur, and was renowned for being one of the four “wonders” of Rome. The other wonders included the “dice” (the square shape of Palazzo Farnese), the “cymbal” (that of Palazzo Borghese), and the “staircase” (the magnificent staircase of Palazzo Ruspoli, adorned with 120 single marble blocks).
The Visionary Architect: Giulio De Angelis
The task of transforming this historic palace fell upon Giulio De Angelis, a leading architect of his time, known for his bold and innovative approach to design. De Angelis, famed for his work on the Rinascente palace, was captivated by the elegance and artistry of English Art Nouveau. He envisioned a unique structure, a square-shaped space enclosed by an exquisite iron and glass vault, supported by cast-iron columns that marked the entryway between Via Minghetti and Piazza dell’Oratorio. The design, a harmonious blend of classicism and modernity, incorporated intricate architectural details and wall decorations that reflected De Angelis’s vision.
The Art of Encausto and the Symbolism of Art Nouveau
The central space of the walkway was painted in the vibrant encausto technique, a method that used pigments mixed with punic wax. Giuseppe Cellini, a skilled artist, brought this ancient technique to life between 1885 and 1888, adorning the walls with a captivating tapestry of colors. The decoration, inspired by the literary critic Giulio Salvadori’s iconographic project, embraced Art Nouveau motifs, weaving in Etruscan and Roman influences, creating a rich tapestry of historical and artistic references.
A Tapestry of Life: The Decorations of Palazzo Sciarra Colonna di Carbognano
The decorations, a reflection of the late-19th-century bourgeois society, celebrated the virtues of women, portraying them as angels of the hearth, wives, and mothers. The upper portion of the walkway displayed a scroll depicting the Virtues – Modesty, Sobriety, Strength, Humility, Prudence, and Patience – on one side, and Benign, Lady, Lovable, Faithful, and Merciful on the other. The lower portion showcased scenes from bourgeois life, capturing the essence of the time: “Tending the Garden,” “Conversation,” “Lunch at Home,” “Musical Entertainment,” “Exhortation to Charity,” “The Courteous Conversation” (featuring Gabriele D’Annunzio), “Vanity,” “Marriage,” and “Care of Children.”
These depictions, a testament to the artistic vision of the era, also highlighted the important role of Donna Carolina Barberini Colonna di Sciarra, the Prince’s mother. Her initials, “CCS,” appeared repeatedly, interwoven with those of her son, “MS,” a subtle yet poignant tribute.
A Legacy of Beauty and Preservation
In the 1970s, a comprehensive restoration project breathed new life into the Gallery, ensuring the preservation of its architectural and artistic legacy. The entire structure was meticulously reinforced with concrete, while the exterior decorations were painstakingly preserved, safeguarding the beauty and artistry that had enchanted generations.
The Palazzo Sciarra Colonna di Carbognano, a testament to the dynamism and creative spirit of Rome, stands as a symbol of the city’s transformation and enduring artistic brilliance. Its captivating beauty, a blend of history, art, and architecture, continues to inspire and captivate visitors, offering a glimpse into the past while embracing the spirit of the present.
