Luxury watch brand Officine Panerai is the presenting sponsor for a world exclusive exhibition underway at the Franklin in Philadelphia entitled "Galileo, the Medici and the Age of Astronomy". The large exhibit, to be held through September 7, 2009 coincides with the 400th anniversary of Galileo's scientific discoveries and focuses on the remarkable influence of the astronomer's work.  Also prominently highlighted is the relationship between Galileo and the powerful Florentine Medici family, whose extensive patronage paved the way for a brilliant explosion of artistic and scientific breakthroughs. In addition to two original telescopes constructed and owned by Galileo the last of their kind visitors can view a range of instruments, art, and machinery from the Medici's extensive collection.  

The sponsorship underscores subtle ties between the Florence-based watch brand and Galileo and the Medici dynasty. In addition to sharing geographic origins in the Tuscan region of Italy, Officine Panerai has demonstrated a steadfast 150-year commitment to the meticulous task of producing outstanding timekeeping instruments.

"Panerai's goal is to interpret at the highest level of Galileo's heritage: the spirit of research and innovation, the commitment to create beautiful artifacts and the vision of science and technology as global factors. We are proud to bring Galileo and the Medici's heritage worldwide through this exhibition today, and through our timepieces everyday", said Angelo Bonati, CEO of Officine Panerai. 

"We would like to thank Officine Panerai, and all our sponsors for their unprecedented support," said Dennis Wint, President and CEO of The Franklin.  "This is one of the most important exhibits ever to come to The Franklin, and we are proud to showcase this crucial moment in our scientific history with a broad and rich series of art and artifacts that tell the compelling tale of Galileo and the Medici's accomplishments."

In all, more than 100 priceless artifacts attributed to Galileo and the Medici are on display at the Franklin. These objects are graciously on loan from the Istituto e Museo di Storia della Scienza which is partner to the Franklin, as well as the world famous Uffizi Gallery.

Source: Vialuxe