We are thrilled to announce the upcoming sale dedicated to Old Master Paintings, which will take place on October 29, 2025, in Florence. This tightly curated selection will include a variety of works realized by some of the most culturally significant italian and international artists.

The selection of works will be particularly refined, spanning a chronological arc from the 15th to the 18th century. The paintings, almost all originating from prestigious private collections, represent a wide range of iconographic themes and artistic schools, both Italian and foreign, with a strong focus on narrative subjects.

Among the highlights is a rare Madonna and Child by Bernardino Zaganelli and a Madonna and Child with Saints by the Master of the Adoration of Ferrara. Particularly noteworthy is the Deposition of Christ in the Tomb with Saints and Holy Women, executed within the vibrant workshop of Sandro Botticelli in the 1490s. Remaining in Florence but moving forward by a few decades, we encounter a Madonna and Child by Franciabigio - previously published, though until now known only through a black-and-white photograph - one of the key figures in Florentine painting of the early 16th century.

The Italian Seicento will also be well represented, with works by Giovanni Battista Spinelli, a series of three paintings by Astolfo Petrazzi, a fascinating canvas depicting Saint Catherine of Alexandria by a French painter of the early 17th century, and a painting considered among the finest achievements of the Caravaggesque Master of Baranello. Among the most evocative works is a large-scale Battle by Salvator Rosa, virtually unpublished and not seen in person for nearly a century. Continuing into later centuries, the catalogue will conclude with a well-known painting by Sebastiano Ricci, an exceptional work by Giacomo Francesco Cipper, known as il Todeschini, and a view of Flooded Piazza Navona painted at the beginning of the 19th century.

In addition, Pandolfini is pleased and honored to present a selection of masterpieces from the collection of Francesco Molinari Pradelli (Bologna, 1911–1996), one of the most celebrated conductors of the 20th century, renowned for his mastery in directing tenors and sopranos of extraordinary talent, including Luciano Pavarotti and Maria Callas. Some of these paintings will be featured in the Old Masters catalogue, while others will appear in the catalogue dedicated to Works of exceptional historical and artistic interest, both to be held in Florence on October 29.

Among the works of particular interest are the Allegory of Poetry by Carlo Francesco Nuvolone, the Pool of Bethesda by Jacopo Palma il Giovane, and the Academic Nude by Ubaldo Gandolfi.

The department is at your disposal to submit confidential and discreet evaluations. If you are interested in consigning your work to this auction or for further information about the sale, we invite you to contact us via email at dipintiantichi@pandolfini.it