First Edition Malpighi Award - 2026

The Malpighi Prize for best painting, in its first edition 2026, è was assigned to the Flagellation of Christ by Domenico Maria Canuti, presented by Tiziana Sassoli's Fondantico gallery.

The vetting commission of Modenantiquaria, composed of art historians, identified the work as one of the artist's rare easel works, appreciating his expressive force, his lively brushstroke and the quality of his colour, elements that make Canuti the protagonist of the Baroque turn given to Bolognese painting after the period of Guido Reni and Guercino. For these reasons, the scientific committee has decided to award the gallery this recognition.
 

"The establishment of this Award - declares Cav. Massimo Malpighi, president of Acetaia Malpighi - is a source of great pride for me and my family and arises from two solid awarenesses. The first is Our historic vocation for art, of which we have always been lovers, is reflected in our premises, which also house great works by Modena masters such as Wainer Vaccari and Giuliano Della Casa. The second awareness is that Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, the fruit of know-how passed down through generations, is itself a work of art that is refined over time, just like a precious painting. This is the guiding principle that guided us in establishing an award that celebrates excellence that lasts over the centuries. I thank Modenantiquaria and Pietro Cantore for this precious opportunity. Thanks also go to Confcommercio, the Chamber of Commerce, the Emilia Romagna Region, and the Municipality of Modena for bringing prestige to this very important event, which will move to the historic center next year. Once again, together with my family and the brand I represent, we will be proud to be there to continue this recognition that rewards.”
 

“It is It's a great emotion - comments Tiziana Sassoli, owner of the award-winning gallery "Fondantico" in Bologna - to receive this recognition from an organization that represents the excellence of Made in Italy in the world. I began to be passionate about this work, which I have been carrying out for over 40 years, at a very young age, and which I hope will also involve the new generations, guaranteeing a solid and innovative future for the international antiques market. The selected painting is a splendid work by Domenico Maria Canuti depicting a flagellation, therefore a religious subject, interpreted in a very beautiful and attractive way because it is a work of art. rich in figures, characters. Observing it, it almost seems like watching a dance; it is therefore not a simple flagellation or deposition. Undoubtedly a museum painting, which I hope can be exhibited in a place where it is visible to the public. Art, even in the most difficult moments like this, makes us breathe beauty.