Museo dei Bozzetti Pierluigi Gherardi

The Museum of Bozzetti in Pietrasanta preserves plaster models and preparatory sculptures that document the work of artists and local workshops.

Why it matters

The bozzetti reveal the process behind sculpture: ideas developed in models before being translated into marble or bronze. The museum reflects Pietrasanta's long relationship with sculptors, foundries and workshops.

What to notice

The collection includes more than a thousand plaster models by Italian and international artists. Works range from small studies to large-scale models, many related to sculptures later realised in public spaces and collections. The historical Luisi workshop models form a distinct part of the collection.

Context and history

The museum was established in 1984 following initiatives promoted by Jette Muhlendorph. It is housed in the former sixteenth-century convent of Sant'Agostino in central Pietrasanta. The collection documents the town's sculptural tradition, which includes marble work attested from the fourteenth century and the activity of workshops serving artists from many countries. The museum's holdings extend to related displays elsewhere in the town.