(ANSA) - TURIN - A Michelangelo masterpiece, one of the most famous depictions of the Nativity, is on special show in Turin for the Christmas period. The Madonna with Child will be displayed in the Medieval courtyard of Palazzo Madama in a free exhibition open in Turin until February 12. The study, normally housed in Florence's Buonarroti Foundation, was created in 1525 with ink, black and red chalk and white lead. The decision to exhibit the Madonna with Child in the building in the heart of Turin's historic centre is intended to ''highlight the deep symbolic value of this time of year'', said the municipal authorities. ''Christmas in the Christian tradition marks the birth of Jesus'', explained Turin Culture Councillor Maurizio Braccialarghe. ''By displaying this valuable drawing by Michelangelo we hope to pay tribute to the idea of motherhood''.

Buonarroti Foundation Director Pina Ragionieri commented: ''It is illuminating to think of this piece, unrivalled in the body of the artist's drawings, as a meditation on a painful motherhood''. A transparent box has been placed at the entrance to the Medieval Courtyard with a sign inviting donations in support of culture. The exhibition was staged with financing from the CRT Foundation and with assistance from the Rome Metamorphosis Association and the Casa Buonarroti Foundation of Florence.

(ANSA).