Art for Guernsey is offering the public a rare opportunity to see privately owned Renaissance-era masterpieces on the island.
The gallery is currently hosting two significant works on private loan.
The first, ‘Madonna and Child’, is an oil-on-panel piece from the 1490s by the Bolognese artist Francesco Francia, who is known for his delicate and serene style.
The second is ‘Men’s Bath’, a work by the famous German Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer.
Both masterpieces are being displayed in the charity’s Julius Baer Strong Room, which is specifically equipped to house and display artwork of this calibre.
As these are private loans, they will only be on display for a short period, remaining at the Mansell Street Gallery for the next three weeks.
David Ummels, the Founder of Art for Guernsey, said: “We are grateful to our sponsor, Julius Baer, and to the collectors on the island who, whilst wishing to be discreet, are willing to lend their precious artworks for everyone to enjoy.”
Mr Ummels explained that these loans allow the gallery to function as a “micro museum”, which he believes will have a positive impact on the next generation of local artists.
“Having a ‘micro museum’ in our gallery allows Art for Guernsey to create opportunities for islanders—especially schoolchildren and students—by removing the logistical barriers between them and world-class art.
“We are delighted to show these remarkable artworks from the Renaissance, which was a truly transformative period in art and humanity.”