Family strategy at the crossroads: the Procaccini in Milan

The study investigates the Procaccini’s family relocation from Bologna to Milan. One of the most important families of painters active in northern Italy at the start of the XVII century, the Procaccini established a family business that played a fundamental role in the development of Lombard art. By looking at studies in the field of socio-economic history, the chapter describes Milan as a microcosm of international influences. Aside from demonstrating that the Procaccini consciously elected to move to a more dynamic city, it emphasizes that Milan was involved in the most important program of post-Tridentine diocesan reform ever enacted in Italy. The city had the largest diocese in Italy, counting over 2000 churches and 200 monasteries. From 1580 onwards, many of these buildings were renovated, presenting opportunities for capable artists. The Procaccini took advantage of this situation, easily superseding local competition.