In 1998 the Uffizi Gallery has acquired the Contini
Bonacossi collection, with temporary entrance from
Via Lambertesca (Back to the Uffizi).
The collection comprises thirty-five paintings, twelve
sculptures, eleven large coats of arms by Della Robbia,
in addition to a remarkable group of ancient furniture
pieces and majolicas, which were originally part of
perhaps the most prestigious collection ever gathered,
belonging to Alessandro Contini Bonacossi.
The most important pieces are now property of the
State, after long and complex hereditary negotiations
with the heirs. Its acquisition significantly enriches
the patrimony of the Uffizi. Among its pieces we find
works attributed to Cimabue and Duccio, in addition
to large wooden panels by Sassetta and Giovanni del
Biondo, a fresco by Andrea del Castagno and a superb
group of paintings of Venetian artists (Veronese,
Giambellino, Tintoretto, Cima da Conegliano). One
of the most precious pieces is the San Lorenzo, an
early work by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
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Lorenzo
Lotto
Madonna with child, Saint Rocco and Saint Sebastian |