The impressive new exhibition in Budapest shines a light on Giacomo Marastoni (1804–1860), a portrait artist born in Venice who became a key figure of Hungary’s Reform Era. After settling in Pest (Pest), Marastoni became renowned as one of the most important portraitists of his time. In 1846, he founded the First Hungarian Academy of Painting (Első Magyar Festészeti Akadémia), which soon cemented its place in art history. Among his students was Károly Lotz (Lotz Károly), who later became a legend in his own right.
Artwork Never Seen Before in Budapest
Visitors can explore Marastoni’s career, his influence on the Hungarian art scene, and the broader impact of his academy, considered the foundation of Hungarian art education. The exhibition features around 240 pieces from 28 public and church collections across four countries, along with works from private collectors. There are portraits, sketches, and even pieces never before displayed in Budapest. The show runs until October 26.
