64 - Francesco Borromini (attributed to)

Francesco Borromini (attributed to) Architectural model for the façade of Sant’Agnese in Agone in Rome 77 × 156 cm An important architectural model in carved and gilded wood, structured as a monumental three-arch façade, punctuated by pilasters, projecting columns, molded cornices, and architectural projections. The structure is embellished with numerous mirrored glass inserts, arranged within rectangular panels and along the upper entablature.The two side arches are surmounted by reliefs bearing the heraldic insignia of the Pamphilj family, while on either side of the central opening, within niches, are two sculpted figures identifiable as Saint Agnes and Saint Emerentiana. At the center of the upper register, above the main arch, is an elaborate cartouche featuring volutes and plant motifs; additional foliage and ornamental elements enrich the side panels. The model presents a different conception of the façade from the design ultimately realized for the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone in Piazza Navona. Construction of the building began in 1652 based on a design by Girolamo and Carlo Rainaldi at the behest of Pope Innocent X Pamphilj; in 1653, supervision of the work passed to Francesco Borromini, who radically transformed the previous design, introducing the characteristic concave articulation of the façade and giving greater prominence to the dome. The pronounced sculptural articulation of this model—based on the alternation of projections and recesses in the façade and the fragmentation of the architectural surface—has traditionally led to its attribution to Francesco Borromini, within the context of the various design phases that characterized the construction of Sant’Agnese. The discrepancy with the facade that was actually built appears particularly significant precisely in light of the building’s complex design history, which saw Rainaldi, Borromini, and then Carlo Rainaldi again take turns leading the project. According to the tradition regarding its provenance, the model was housed in the ballroom of Palazzo Pamphilj in Rome, placed above a fireplace. It remained in the palace until the mid-20th century, when, as part of the dispersal of some of the furnishings, it was transferred to the Sangiorgi Gallery at Palazzo Borghese, subsequently entering a private Roman collection. Provenance: - Palazzo Pamphilj, Rome; - Sangiorgi Gallery, Palazzo Borghese, Rome;- Private Roman collection. Bibliography: - V. Del Gaizo, *Grande Enciclopedia Antiquariato e Arredamento*, Rome, 1967; - G. Lizzani, *Il Mobile Romano*, Novara, 1997.