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The Cenacolo di Foligno is located in the ex-convent of the
Tertiary Franciscans of Foligno, transformed into the "Conservatory of poor and
honest girls" in 1980 after the transfer of the nuns.
The fresco (measuring 4.40 x 8 metres) was rediscovered in 1845 and attributed
at first to Raphael, but recent critics have unanimously agreed it was the work
of Pietro Vannucci, known as Il Perugino (1445/50-1623), dating it between
1493-96. The idea has also been advanced that it was painted over another fresco
of the same theme by Neri di Bicci (1419-1491). This work can be regarded as one
of the most important examples of Umbrian culture of the Renaissance of which
Perugino, Raphaels's master, was one of the most serene and magnificent masters.
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