The ‘beautiful enigma’

Abstract Through an analysis of the art collection and patronage Margherita Traube Mengarini (1856–1912), a German scientist woman activist Jewish origin in Rome, this article explores dynamics German–Jewish collectors’ networks active Italy from 1880s to early 1910s, with particular focus on women. The assembled by her husband Guglielmo included both antique pieces – discovered during excavations for couple’s houses Rome Anzio paintings family, commissioned contemporary artists. discusses context, focusing artists, collectors intellectuals their salon, comparing those other Jews men