Tra critica e salvaguardia. Luigi Coletti e la difesa delle opere d’arte mobili durante il secondo conflitto mondiale

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the protection of the Italian artistic heritage amidst periods of armed conflicts, which has generated a wealth of historical analysis. Based on new archival research, this article focuses on the case of Luigi Coletti (1886-1961), a prominent art historian who exemplified unwavering commitment to the preservation of movable works of art in Treviso and its environs during World War II. The essay meticulously examines the intricacies of mobilizing artworks between 1940 and 1943, encompassing aspects such as transportation and secure recovery in local shelters. Furthermore, it delves into the rigorous selection process employed to identify the artworks worthy of protection. Coletti emerges as a model of scholarly dedication, demonstrating a profound devotion to conserving the artistic legacy of his region.