From Mongolia to the global baroque Exhibition on display in Rome
- Jan 21
- 2 min read
In celebration of the 390th anniversary of the birth of the legendary polymath Undur Gegeen Zanabazar, a landmark exhibition titled “From Mongolia to the Global Baroque” opened on January 19, 2026, at the prestigious Borghese Gallery in Rome, Italy.
A historical cultural bridge
The inauguration featured distinguished speakers including Mongolia’s Ambassador to Italy, Narantungalag Tserendorj, the Director of the Chinggis Khaan National Museum, Chuluun Sampildondov, and the Director of the Borghese Gallery, Francesca Cappelletti.
This exhibition marks the first time Zanabazar's masterpieces have been displayed in Europe. By placing his work alongside the legacy of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the exhibition explores the concept of a "Global Baroque"—a period where, despite vast geographical distances, both East and West achieved a shared peak of artistic refinement and emotional expression.
Key highlights and upcoming dates
The Masterpieces: The Rome exhibition features the bronze cast of “Green Tara” and a bronze self-portrait of “Undur Gegeen Zanabazar,” both of which are part of Mongolia’s List of Unique and Priceless Historical and Cultural Heritage.
Rome Dates: Open at the Borghese Gallery until February 22, 2026.
Turin Exhibition: Following the Rome showing, a second exhibition titled “Zanabazar: Eyes of the Steppe” (Tal Nutgiin Melmii) will premiere at the Museum of Oriental Art (MAO) in Turin from February 26 to April 7, 2026.
Strengthening global ties
Beyond the artwork, the event served as a catalyst for future diplomacy. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Chinggis Khaan National Museum and the Italian Cultural Institute, as well as the Heritage International Institute. These agreements aim to:
Digitize Heritage: Integrate Mongolian collections into international cultural platforms.
Museum Exchange: Strengthen staff capacity and training for guides.
Strategic Partnership: This cultural exchange follows the elevation of Mongolia-Italy relations to a "Strategic Partnership" in late 2025, marking Italy as a key European partner for Mongolia.
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