Marco Palmezzano Italian, 1459-1593

Marco Palmezzano (Forlì, Italy, 1459 – 1539) 

Born in Forlì in 1459, he was trained in Melozzo da Forlì's workshop, as indicated by his signature –  "Marcus de Melotiis" – which translates to Marcus of Melozzo. 

He worked with his master first in Loreto, where he participated in the decoration of the Chapel of theTreasure in the Holy House. 

Later they worked together in Rome, decorating the apse of the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem. 

 
In Rome, he was profoundly influenced by the so-called grotesque style inspired by Nero's Domus Aurea. Palmezzano played a significant role in spreading this technique throughout his native region. 

In the following years, together with Melozzo, he collaborated on the decoration of the Feo Chapel in the Church of St. Biagio in Forlì. Notable examples of their work from this period include the “Madonna and Child with Saints” now displayed in the Brera Art Gallery and the “Annunciation” showcased in the Forlì’s Art Gallery. 

In 1495, he moved to Venice, where the bright landscapes of the lagoon profoundly influenced his artistic style.  Eventually, he established his own workshop in the city. 

In 1501, he was active in Matelica to paint the altarpiece known as “Madonna and Child with Saints Francis and Catherine”. 

In his final years, Palmezzano divided his time between Faenza and Forlì. In his hometown, he designed the Hospital of the Battuti in 1517. 

He died in Forlì in 1539.

Photo UniCredit Group (Sebastiano Pellion di Persano)