Artist Paolo Veneziano (active 1333–1358) is considered by scholars to be the most important Venetian painter of the 14th century and founder of the Venetian school of painting. One of the artist’s most spectacular works is the Santa Chiara Polyptych, which was created for the Franciscan nunnery of Santa Chiara in Venice around 1350.
The polyptych features 21 individually painted scenes set within an elaborately gilded architectural frame. The central panel depicts the Coronation of the Virgin, flanked by eight scenes from the life of Christ. The top register contains depictions of Saints Matthew, Clare, John, Francis, Mark, and Luke, as well as the Pentecost and prophets Isaiah and Daniel.
In 1808 following the Napoleonic suppressions of the convent, the central panel of the Coronation was sent to the Brera museum in Milan, and although the polyptych was acquired by the Gallerie dell’Accademia in 1812, the central panel was not re-united with the work until 1950.
As nearly 70 years have passed since the polyptych underwent its last conservation treatment, darkened varnish and surface grime now cover the painted surface, masking many details and the more vibrant color tones. The fragile wooden frame and support support structure are also showing signs of condition problems including cracking and splitting. The polyptych will now undergo much-needed conservation treatment, thanks to generous underwriting from Save Venice Board members Dr. and Mrs. Randolph H. Guthrie.
The painting has been taken to the Misericordia Laboratory in Venice where conservator Milena Dean is now working with specialists to complete pre-restoration analysis. Ultraviolet photography has aided in identifying the presence and composition of non-original surface residues including surface grime, oxidized varnishes, and overpainting from the 1950 and 19th-century conservation efforts. A full photogrammetric survey of the front and back of the panels and the frame will allow the conservator to understand how the painting’s complex structure is constructed. Following the analysis and test cleaning trials, the darkened varnish and surface grime will be thinned and removed gradually in order to protect the delicate painted surface.
133 East 58th Street, Suite 501
New York, NY 10022
Palazzo Contarini Polignac
Dorsoduro 870 30123 Venice, Italy
The Rosand Library & Study Center is accessible by appointment.
133 East 58th Street, Suite 501
New York, NY 10022
Palazzo Contarini Polignac
Dorsoduro 870 30123 Venice, Italy
The Rosand Library & Study Center is accessible by appointment.