The Echo of Artemis at MANN: ancient sculpture and porcelain in dialogue | inItaly | True Italian Experience

The Echo of Artemis: ancient sculpture and porcelain at MANN

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) hosts “The Echo of Artemis”, a focused installation that places the Artemis of Ephesus statue (2nd century AD) alongside an exquisite late-18th-century biscuit attributed to Filippo Tagliolini. The display explores how a Hellenistic-Roman cult image was reinterpreted in Neapolitan porcelain of the 1700s.

• Period: 13 May – 8 June 2026
• Location: Atrium of the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN), Piazza Museo 19, Naples
• Highlighted works: Artemis of Ephesus in alabaster and bronze; biscuit “The Sacrifice to Diana of Ephesus” (c. 1790) by Filippo Tagliolini
• Purpose: to showcase the dialogue between an ancient religious image and its 18th-century porcelain reinterpretation, comparing techniques and iconography

The Artemis statue is part of the historical Farnese Collection and bears bronze integrations made during past relocations; the biscuit reflects the output of the Royal Factory of Naples and the inspirations drawn from ancient sculptures present in the city. This short exhibition acts as a preliminary step in a shared museum itinerary across Naples and precedes the scheduled opening of porcelain galleries at the Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte in June 2026.

Practical information

• When: 2026-05-13 to 2026-06-08
• Where: Atrium of the MANN, Piazza Museo 19, 80135 Naples
• What to see: a direct comparison between ancient sculpture and 18th-century porcelain; material and iconographic details to examine on site
• Tip: check the museum’s official website for opening hours and guided visit options before planning your visit

Visiting the MANN atrium offers a concise but rich opportunity to observe how classical models informed later decorative arts and to appreciate the material continuity between different historical periods.