Symbolism in Italy (1883–1915) at Fondazione Magnani-Rocca

Symbolism in Italy. Origins and developments of a new aesthetic (1883–1915)

Where: Fondazione Magnani-Rocca, Mamiano di Traversetolo (Parma). Until: 28 June 2026.

Overview

This exhibition, curated by Francesco Parisi and Stefano Roffi, gathers over 150 works — paintings, sculptures, prints and archival documents — to trace how Symbolism was interpreted and transformed in Italy from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. The selection highlights dialogues with European currents while focusing on distinct Italian developments.

Highlights

• Seven thematic sections addressing myth, landscape, the female figure, and graphic arts.
• Works on loan from major national museums and private collections, many rarely shown together.
• Featured artists include Giovanni Segantini, Giuseppe Pellizza da Volpedo, Gaetano Previati, Giulio Aristide Sartorio, Mario De Maria, Ettore Tito, Alberto Martini, among others.
• An illustrated catalogue from Dario Cimorelli Editore with essays by specialist scholars.

Why visit

The exhibition clarifies the Italian approach to Symbolism: the renewed treatment of historic and mythic subjects, the introspective landscape, and the ambivalent depictions of women as both sacred and seductive figures. It's valuable for those studying cross-currents between Italian art and broader European trends.

Practical information

• Address: Fondazione Magnani-Rocca, via Fondazione Magnani-Rocca 4, Mamiano di Traversetolo (Parma).
• Opening hours: Tuesday–Friday 10:00–18:00 (ticket office closes at 17:00); Saturday, Sunday and public holidays 10:00–19:00 (ticket office closes at 18:00). Closed on Mondays.
• Special dates: open on 25 April, 1 May and 2 June.
• Tickets and updates: check the Fondazione's website for current information before visiting.

The show brings together rare masterpieces and offers a focused panorama of Symbolism's legacy in Italy.