ABSTRACT
Artistic competition with the Carracci was perhaps a reason that led the Procaccini to leave Bologna and relocate to Milan. However, it was not the only one and certainly not the most important. In early modern Italy as well as in our day, the decision to migrate to a different state for business purposes involves essential requirements: good business contacts, a solid economic outlook, excellent practical skills and expertise. Aside from being one of Europe’s leading commercial centres, Milan controlled the largest diocese in Italy. The Lombard capital hosted 238 churches, 30 monasteries for men and 34 convents, while the diocese of Milan extended over 753 parishes and over 560,000 souls. From a historical perspective, the Procaccini were part of the large crowds that left Bologna between the second half of the 1580s and the start of the 1590s. Camillo’s payment highlights his status as a newcomer in Milan and is indicative of the patron’s willingness to evaluate his skills.
