New film celebrating Italian masterpiece that Hull has saved for the nation
10/12/2013
As the city celebrates being named UK City of Culture 2017, Ferens Art Gallery is launching a short film about its landmark acquisition 'Christ Between Saints Paul and Peter' by Pietro Lorenzetti, c1320.
On Thursday 28 November Ferens Art Gallery will launch the nine minute film which tells the story of the Lorenzetti, from its historical significance, to Hull's acquisition and the conservation work currently taking place at the National Gallery in London.
The film about the rare and beautiful early Renaissance painting, 'Christ between Saints Paul and Peter' (dated c.1320) by Sienese artist Pietro Lorenzetti will be shown daily at the Ferens Art Gallery for visitors, ahead of the art work arriving at the Gallery in 2014.
The nine minute documentary is the first of a three part series designed to keep people informed about the landmark purchase, which saved the artwork from export, and update visitors with progress made on the 700 year old panel during its conservation work.
The painting was bought in May 2013 using the John Bradshaw bequest and Ferens Endowment Fund, a trust ring-fenced for the purchase of art, with a generous Heritage Lottery Fund grant and further support from the Art Fund.
The artwork joins the Ferens permanent collection in 2014 following conservation treatment, courtesy of the National Gallery in London.
A second film covering the conservation in more depth is planned at a mid-point in the project and a third and final film will capture public reaction on the arrival and installation of the work in Hull.
Hull City Council Portfolio Holder for Culture, Councillor Terry Geraghty said:
"Hull has demonstrated its cultural offer through being named the UK City of Culture 2017 and Ferens Art Gallery has one of the most comprehensive regional collections of European art in Britain.
"We will see more people visit the city and our award winning Gallery will undoubtedly see an increase in visitors, and this art work is something that will take pride of place in the permanent collection.
"The film is a great introduction ahead of the Lorenzetti's arrival next summer."
Kirsten Simister, Curator of the Gallery said:
"The film is engaging and accessible and we hope it gives people an insight into the story behind this remarkable painting and its significance, leading up to the exciting moment when we bring it to Hull."
For more information, visit: http://www.hullcc.gov.uk/ferens
