GB · International contemporary art platformOn 29 September 2026, J.M.W. Turner’s painting "Rome, from Mount Aventine" (1836) was unveiled at the Palazzo Rondinini in Rome. The venue is an 18th-century baroque residence originally built by an art collector. This unveiling marks the start of a three-day exhibition, which is intended to generate interest ahead of the Old Masters and 19th-century evening auction at Sotheby’s London, scheduled for 9 December. The Turner painting will lead that auction.
The painting itself depicts an umbrella pine tree set against the winding river Tiber, with the city of Rome stretching into the distance and bathed in soft light. Sotheby’s describes the canvas as possessing an “astonishing freshness.” Notably, Turner’s fingerprints, scrapes from his palette knife, and individual brush hairs are visible in the wet paint. The work has never been restored and remains on its original canvas and in its original frame.
According to Sotheby’s, the exhibition in Rome makes this painting the most valuable work ever shown by an auction house in Italy. After the three-day exhibition in Rome, the painting is scheduled to travel to Sotheby’s galleries in London, Hong Kong, and New York. The auction house notes high interest in Turner among Asian clients and highlights the artist’s substantial presence in American collections.
Following its international tour, the painting will return to London for display at Sotheby’s New Bond Street gallery. This display will take place ahead of the 9 December auction, where the painting will be offered for sale. The exhibition and tour are designed to engage collectors and generate excitement for the upcoming auction.
Sotheby’s representatives have expressed confidence that the return of this work to auction represents a significant opportunity for collectors. They hope that this will be reflected in the bidding during the sale. The painting’s journey through major art centres is part of Sotheby’s approach to attracting a global audience.
The painting’s condition is notable for its originality. It has not undergone restoration and retains both its original canvas and frame. The visible marks left by Turner, such as fingerprints and brush hairs, are highlighted by Sotheby’s as evidence of the artist’s hand and the work’s authenticity.
The exhibition at Palazzo Rondinini, the subsequent international tour, and the planned auction in London together form a significant event for those interested in Old Masters and 19th-century art. The painting’s display in multiple cities aims to maximise exposure and interest among collectors worldwide.
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