The exhibition tells of Giorgio de Chirico’s (1888–1978) intense relationship with Rome, the city where he lived and worked for thirty years. There is a particular emphasis on de Chirico’s theatrical output – the costumes and sets of performances seen at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.

The exhibition presents a wide range of paintings and drawings of de Chirico’s lesser-known neo-metaphysical and neo-Baroque work, which he bequeathed to the foundation that bears his name. Some of the works have never before been exhibited to the general public.

The exhibition has been realised in collaboration with Fondazione Giorgio e Isa de Chirico, Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Fondazione Cerratelli and Civita Mostre e Musei. Curators of the exhibition are Hannu Palosuo, Italo Nunziata, Cornelia Bujin and Lorenzo Canova.

I am sorry, but I had to tell these gentlemen (critics and my enemies) some bad news. I have decided, if God allows, to stay and work in Italy and… most likely in Rome. Gentlemen, yes, I want to stay and work here, to work more and better, to work for my fame and for your punishment.

(Giorgio de Chirico)