To celebrate the 500th anniversary of the composition of The Prince, this exhibit explores the essential role Niccolò Machiavelli has played in the history of modern political thought, his influence on generations of politicians and intellectuals as well as on popular culture.
Organized by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Italy in Washington DC, with the support of the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Activities and Tourism.
An initiative of the Istituto della Enciclopedia Italiana founded by Giovanni Treccani.
Organization and Production of the Exhibition: Comunicare Organizzando
This exhibition is conceived as a journey both in time and space. It starts in the Renaissance —placing Machiavelli and his work in their historical context — then reaches the modern day —illustrating the different ways the writer and his masterwork have been seen up to today. It does not intend to offer a definitive or "correct" interpretation of The Prince and its author; rather, it allows visitors to linger on the fascinating facts behind and around this short treaty and to have a glimpse of its persisting presence in our own time.
The exhibition is divided into four sections:
- Machiavelli and his historical context
- The Prince
- Fortune and Diffusion of The Prince
- “Uses” and “Abuses” of Machiavelli and The Prince
It features documents, books, paintings, costumes, videos, manuscripts, and objects which explore not only Machiavelli’s life and some cultural and historical events of his era, but also the impact he has had on popular culture, becoming the star of video games, comic books and much more.
COVER IMAGE: Antonio Maria Crespi detto il Bustino - Ritratto di Niccolò Machiavelli particolare - olio su tela, 60x51 cm - Milano,Veneranda Biblioteca Ambrosiana, Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, inv. n. 1382
© Veneranda Biblioteca Ambrosiana - Milano/De Agostini Picture Library