Alberto di Mauro, diplomat

Back in 2005 I was doing a piece for Tokyo Journal on the new Italian Cultural Institute in Japan, and also reporting on a exhibition of Etruscan artefacts that was being held there. In order to get a few quotes I contacted the Institute's Cultural Director, Alberto di Mauro by email, and carried out the following brief interview:

Liddell: My name is Colin Liddell. I got your name from Ms. Furukawa at the Italian Cultural Institute. I regularly contribute articles on art-related subjects to the Japan Times. This paper has asked me to write about the exhibition "Il Mondo Degli Etruschi."

Di Mauro: Thanks for your attention and your interest in our events.

Liddell: What is the purpose of this exhibition?

Di Mauro: To make known in Japan Etruscan civilisation. Every one knows about Romans and Greeks, but Etruscans are  not yet so popular. Nevertheless their culture was very spread out and influenced even Romans for a certain period.

Liddell: Does the exhibition have any particular theme?

Di Mauro: There is not a special theme, but different sectors to analyse the aspects of their civilisation: arts, religion, urban society, power. You will find them in the panels displayed in each section.

Liddell: What do you hope to accomplish with this exhibition?

Di Mauro: Italian culture since ancient times is a very composite culture, recording influence and contributions of different people. This exhibition is a contribution to discover the complexity of our culture.

Liddell: How many pieces do you have on show?

Di Mauro: 235 pieces, their provenance from the region actually called Toscana.

Liddell: How was the exhibition organised?

Di Mauro: The exhibition has been chosen as the main event on the occasion of the opening of the new premises of the Italian Cultural Institute. It is organised by Regione Toscana with the support of Foundation Monte dei Paschi di Siena. All the works are chosen by Sovrintendenza Archeologica of Toscana. Further information you will get in the catalogue. 

Liddell: What is the particular beauty of Etruscan artefacts?

Di Mauro: From one side their realistic approach in the arts. Sometimes their conception is so modern that it has influenced modern artists (Marino Marini, Giacometti, etc.). Their pieces of jewellery were the most refined productions in the area in that period.

Liddell: What is your favourite item in the exhibition? Why?

Di Mauro: The canopic jar for its anthropomorphic shape: a mix of symbolism , realism, and at the same time a cult object.