Removing the varnish from a painting in the Prado Museum rejuvenates the protagonists of a mythological scene painted by Guido Reni
The painting ‘Hippomenes and Atalanta’, one of the most beautiful in the Prado Museum, has removed the varnish that made the painting so dark that it created diffuse lines. The work of Guido Reni (Bologna, 1575-1642), a painter deeply influenced by classical antiquity and Raphael, the canvas hangs in the central gallery of Pinacoteca, before traveling to Frankfurt, where the Städel Museum hosts an exhibition about the artist. On his return, the painting will be present in the major exhibition that the Prado Museum will dedicate to this Baroque master, one of the major projects to be worked on next year.
In addition to the facelift, the painting has been given a new frame, which allows to appreciate the composition as the Italian master intended. According to Prado restorer Almudena Sánchez, the work has regained much of the brightness overshadowed by the layers of protective materials, giving it a “caravaggio” appearance. After nine months of work, the restoration has revealed the existence of two bands on the left and bottom that were not original to the painter. This discovery has made it possible to restore the original vision.
‘Hippomenes and Atalanta’, a painting of considerable dimensions (206 x 279 cm), recreates a moment in the race between Atalanta, daughter of the king of Arcadia, and Hippomenes. The heroine had married herself off to whoever could beat her in the race, which was not easy, for she was as agile as a good fighter. Anyone who ventured into the company and lost was sentenced to death.
Old unfortunate interventions were the cause of numerous and extensive repaintings that deteriorated over time until they became unsightly stains that tarnish the canvas.
The expertise of the restorers has worked the miracle. Now the brown shade and volume of Hippomenes’ curls look abundant. Moreover, the sea has shed its whitish layer and now emphasizes the illusion of transparency of the dark blue water.
During the final phase of the restoration, all the damage and lack of color that had come to light after removing the old repaint that hid them was reintegrated. Thanks to the good work of the technicians, Atalanta is even more graceful if possible. Her features dazzle with their delicacy, and the subtle pink color of her cheeks gives a more realistic picture of physical exertion.
Source: La Verdad
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
