MANCHESTER, NH.- The Currier Museum of Art announces the exhibition, Myth and Faith in Renaissance Florence, centered around a recently discovered masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture, John the Baptist. The historically important work was created by Giovan Montorsoli, one of Michelangelo’s most gifted students. Until recently, the sculpture was unknown and unpublished. Several other objects are presented to the public for the first time in this exhibition, while other objects have been given attributions based on new research.

This exhibition examines the variety of symbolic roles played by John the Baptist, Florence’s patron saint, in the civic and spiritual lives of its citizens. Moreover the art of ancient Rome shaped the development of art and culture during the Renaissance – a theme explored through restorations of ancient sculpture.

“The culture of Renaissance Florence – now 500 years old – continues to astound us. Works of striking beauty reveal a political intrigue and a complex society. We hope that visitors will come away with an appreciation of the wonders and mysteries of the Renaissance,” stated Alan Chong, Director of the Currier Museum of Art.

“The museum’s sculpture of John the Baptist is highly unusual because he is presented as a muscular, striding warrior,” stated Kurt Sundstrom, Curator at the Currier Museum. “Much of our perception of the Renaissance has been dominated by the great works of Michelangelo. Our sculpture reflects Michelangelo’s influence, but also allows us to study another important artist connected to the political events of his time.”

A full-color catalogue is being published and sold by the Currier Museum in conjunction with the exhibition.