For the first time outside of Europe, Bvlgari and Fondazione Torlonia collaborated to bring the strength and power embodied by imperial Roman statues to the United States. Known as the largest collection of preserved imperial statues to date, “Myth and Marble” will be on display at The Art Institute of Chicago following extensive preservation efforts. This exhibition celebrates the combined efforts of Fondazione Bvlgari and Fondazione Torlonia in restoring these historically significant masterpieces and introducing them to a new audience.
Bvlgari has long demonstrated its dedication to the arts and cultural patronage. This groundbreaking North American tour not only highlights the efforts involved in restoring masterpieces from such a significant time period, but also raises awareness of the research and conservation work carried out by the Torlonia Foundation.
Revel like the Romans, Bvlgari’s Spectacular Opening Night
Courtesy of Bvlgari, The Art Institute Of Chicago, and Torlonia Foundation.
Joined by patrons of The Art Institute of Chicago, The Torlonia foundation, friends of the maison, and the national press, Bvlgari commemorated the unveiling of this impactful exhibition with a night filled with celebrations worthy of Roman grandeur. The unforgettable evening began with a private tour of the exhibition, at the Abbott Gallery, where guests were invited to explore and admire the collection. Afterward, they were treated with cocktails and the enchanting melodies of harpist Leanne Bennion, before proceeding to a luxurious dinner at Griffin Court. Every aspect of the dinner exuded elegance, with a menu carefully curated by Michelin star chef Joe Flamm, accompanied by a live violin performance by talented Joshua Brown.
Breathing New Life into the Art of Ancient Rome
Courtesy of Bvlgari, The Art Institute Of Chicago, and Torlonia Foundation.
The Romans are set to travel across North America–an achievement they could have never foreseen–in a curated exhibition of 58 highlights from the Torlonia collection, including 25 pieces that have never been publicly viewed. This collection exudes a sense of endless opulence and a journey of limitless rediscovery. Organized into six thematic sections, each highlighting depictions of reigning emperors, dating to the 2nd century CE, allowing observers to explore the collection from various perspectives and fully embrace the boundless potential it embodies.
“Once again. We are proud to stand alongside the Fondazione Torlonia on its unique journey of artistic rediscovery, bringing to light the unrivaled beauty of the worlds most important private collections of ancient Greek and Roman sculptures,” said Jean-Christophe Babin, Bvlgari Group CEO and President of Fondazione Bvlgari.
“We are proud to stand alongside the Fondazione Torlonia on its unique journey of artistic rediscovery,”
Jean-Christophe Babin
This exhibition stands as a testament to the passion and dedication from Fondazione Bvlgari and Fondazione Torlonia in restoring and preserving these important artifacts, offering a unique opportunity to experience the collection firsthand and expand the reach of their extensive preservation efforts. The exhibition will be open to the public at its opening location, The Art Institute of Chicago, from March 15th to June 29th, before making its way to the Kimbell Art Museum and concluding its journey at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
Bvlgari’s Dedication to Art Conservation
Courtesy of Bvlgari, The Art Institute Of Chicago, and Torlonia Foundation.
In 2024, Bvlgari chose to deepen their commitment to cultural preservation and social responsibility by founding Fondazione Bvlgari. Committed to fostering a lasting impact in Art, Education, and Philanthropy and fueled by a strong sense of responsibility to the community, the foundation aims to build strong partnerships with international organizations to create lasting partnerships that empower future generations, support the arts, and preserve cultural heritage.
Courtesy of Bvlgari, The Art Institute Of Chicago, and Torlonia Foundation.
Courtesy of Bvlgari, The Art Institute Of Chicago, and Torlonia Foundation.
