THE GIFT OF MARIA LUIGIA. Support the restoration of a forgotten treasure

In 1819 Maria Luigia of Austria donated to the University a splendid collection of wax mushrooms, filled with more than one hundred models of high artistic and scientific value. This is a unique collection, functional for mycological study and recognition thanks to the faithful reproduction of details, dimensions and colors. The city of Parma, for over a century, has had no way to appreciate the Duchess's gift, which has long remained hidden from the public.
Time has since marked the original materials and workmanship, making a conservative restoration aimed at restoring Maria Luigia's mushrooms to their former glory indispensable. The restoration of the collection will allow its return to the city, two centuries after the donation, enriching its usable heritage.

Upon completion of the restoration, the Museum of Naturalistic Historiography will house part of it within the section dedicated to Maria Luigia's Cabinet of Sciences. The remaining mushrooms will find a home at the Botanical Museum, which will open at the Botanical Garden displaying a selection of historical materials produced or preserved by the city of Parma through more than five centuries.

Ceroplasty, or the art behind this collection, has curious origins. Born within the tradition of ex votos, its skills soon migrated to human anatomy and botany. The lack of durability of wax had two opposing effects over time. On the one hand, other techniques based on papier-mâché or plaster have taken over, while on the other hand the value of the very rare surviving collections has grown by leaps and bounds.

ART BONUS

"The Gift of Maria Luigia" is an Art Bonus project promoted by the Ministry of Culture, the permanent tax measure established to encourage financial support for public cultural heritage. Liberal donations destined for this project, aimed at restoration, maintenance and enhancement works, guarantee businesses and professionals a tax credit equal to 65 percent of the amount donated.

Natural persons, noncommercial entities and businesses can support the project. Donations made entitle the recipient to a tax credit equal to 65% of the amount donated, to be divided into three annual installments.
For individuals and noncommercial entities, the benefit is recognized within the limit of 15% of taxable income, and for businesses within the limit of 5‰ of annual revenues. 
The disbursements must be made with traceable payment instruments, as required by current regulations.

For more information click here.