The Gallerie dell’Accademia in Venice is currently hosting an exceptional exhibition titled “Corpi Moderni. La costruzione del corpo nella Venezia del Rinascimento” (“Modern Bodies: The Making of the Body in Renaissance Venice”). Running from April 4 to July 27, 2025, this exhibition offers a profound exploration into the depiction and understanding of the human body during the Renaissance, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Albrecht Dürer, and Giorgione.
The Exhibition: A Deep Dive into Renaissance Anatomy and Art
“Corpi Moderni” is meticulously curated to examine how Venetian artists of the Renaissance era perceived, studied, and represented the human form. The exhibition is structured into three thematic sections:
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The Revealed Body: Knowledge
This section delves into the scientific and medical studies of human anatomy that flourished in Venice and Padua during the Renaissance. It showcases how artists and scientists collaborated to unveil the complexities of the human body, leading to groundbreaking advancements in both art and medicine. -
The Nude Body: Desire
Focusing on the human body as an object of desire, this segment explores the emergence of the reclining Venus motif and the portrayal of male figures as lyrical and sublime entities. It reflects on how these representations influenced societal perceptions of beauty and sensuality. -
The Constructed Body: Self-Representation
Examining the ways individuals of the Renaissance adorned and presented their bodies to convey identity and status, this section features period clothing, accessories, and artifacts. It highlights the cultural constructs of masculinity and femininity and the early instances of mechanical prosthetics, underscoring the body as a canvas for personal and societal expression.
A Rare Display of Leonardo’s “Vitruvian Man”
A centerpiece of the exhibition is Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic “Vitruvian Man”. This drawing epitomizes the blend of art and science during the Renaissance, illustrating ideal human proportions based on the ancient Roman architect Vitruvius’ descriptions. Due to its delicate condition, the “Vitruvian Man” is seldom exhibited, making this a rare opportunity for visitors to witness this masterpiece firsthand. The drawing will be on display from April 4 to July 27, 2025, aligning with the exhibition’s duration.
Practical Information for Visitors
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Exhibition Dates: April 4 – July 27, 2025
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Location: Gallerie dell’Accademia, Venice
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Opening Hours: Monday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (last admission at 1:30 PM); Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:15 PM (last admission at 6:30 PM) gallerieaccademia.it
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Tickets: Available for purchase on the official Gallerie dell’Accademia website.
Given the significance of the artworks and the anticipated interest, it is advisable to book tickets in advance to ensure entry.
Conclusion
“Corpi Moderni” at the Gallerie dell’Accademia offers an unparalleled journey into the Renaissance’s exploration of the human body, bridging art, science, and cultural studies. This exhibition not only showcases artistic masterpieces but also provides insight into the historical context that shaped our understanding of human anatomy and representation. For art enthusiasts, historians, and the general public alike, this is an unmissable event that illuminates the enduring legacy of Renaissance thought and creativity.
