"Ecce Homo" returns to Italy, Minister Giuli at Sotheby's in New York to bring it home

"This is a historic moment. The return of this painting to Italy is an unprecedented cultural operation. It is a great satisfaction for the Ministry of Culture and for all Italians who can once again enjoy such beauty, and they can do so also because the Government and the MiC have made strong commitments to strengthen the cultural heritage available to citizens. The painting is exceptional, it has a very high devotional and artistic value, it is an extraordinary acquisition."

This was stated by the Minister of Culture, Alessandro Giuli, who visited Sotheby’s in New York, where he was able to see for the first time the double-sided panel by Antonello da Messina, featuring "Ecce Homo" and "San Girolamo Penitente." The panel, painted on both sides, presents on one side an intense "Ecce Homo," with Christ crowned with thorns, and on the other side a "San Girolamo penitente" set in a harsh rocky landscape. The work, acquired a few weeks ago by the General Directorate of Museums, will return to Italy in a few days.