Anna Franchi the first and the last macchiaiolo

Anna Franchi, an eclectic personality engaged on multiple fronts, also made a fundamental contribution to art criticism, particularly in enhancing Tuscan art and the Macchiaioli movement.

The Livornese woman can rightfully be counted among the first European art historians. After writing numerous art articles, in 1902 she accepted Telemaco Signorini’s invitation to write a book on the Macchiaioli artists, which was published under the title “Tuscan Art and Artists from 1850 to Today.” In 1910, Anna Franchi wrote the first biography dedicated to the master Giovanni Fattori, followed by numerous articles.

Franchi supported the artists of her time not only by being a critical voice but also by acting as an intermediary for sales to collectors and auction houses.

The conference aims to retrace this incredible journey.

Jacopo Suggi is an art historian, journalist, and museum operator.

The event is part of the initiatives organized for the exhibition “Anna Franchi, between art, literature, and political commitment.” The installation, organized to mark the 70th anniversary of her passing and promoted by Soroptimist International Club Livorno, in collaboration with the Municipality of Livorno and with the sponsorship of the Livorno State Archives, aims to celebrate this amazing and eclectic personality.