Renaissance Restored

This book explores the intersections of art history and paintings restoration in nineteenth-century Europe, charting how restoration practices were integrated into museum settings and how contemporary restorers negotiated the appearances of works of art. It proposes a model for a new conservation history that considers a wider cultural horizon.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2021
Publisher: Getty Trust Publications

This captivatingly illustrated volume delves into the intricate connections between art history and the restoration of paintings in nineteenth-century Europe. The practices of repairing works of art and documenting them, which eventually evolved into art conservation and art history, share a common heritage. By the nineteenth century, these two fields had become inseparable, forming a rich tapestry of knowledge and expertise. While the art historical scholarship of this era has been extensively explored, the restoration practices of the time have received relatively less attention. However, this book aims to rectify that oversight by charting the intersections between art history and conservation in the treatment of Italian Renaissance paintings during this period.

In the initial chapters, the restoration of works by renowned artists such as Giotto and Titian is examined, providing a framework for understanding the evolving perspectives of art historians during this time. These chapters are contextualized by the contemporary scholarship of figures like Jacob Burckhardt, G. B. Cavalcaselle, and Joseph Crowe, who were instrumental in redefining the understanding of the earlier age. Their insights and interpretations shed light on the restoration processes and the artistic choices made by restorers of the time.

Subsequent chapters delve into the integration of paintings conservation into museum settings. The narrative employs a diverse range of sources, including period texts, unpublished archival materials, and historical photographs, to explore how paintings looked during a crucial period when scholars were penning the foundational texts of art history. At the same time, contemporary restorers were navigating the complex challenges of preserving and restoring these works, ensuring their visual integrity and authenticity.

Through its comprehensive analysis, the book proposes a novel model for conservation history. It aims to be object-focused, yet enriched by considering a broader cultural horizon. By examining the intersections between art history and restoration, this book offers valuable insights into the complex processes and considerations involved in preserving and interpreting works of art. It sheds light on the reciprocal relationship between these fields and highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in the preservation and understanding of our cultural heritage.

In conclusion, this captivating volume provides a fresh perspective on the intersections between art history and conservation in nineteenth-century Europe. It sheds light on the historical practices and processes that shaped the treatment of Italian Renaissance paintings and offers valuable insights into the evolution of these fields. By exploring the complex relationships between art, scholarship, and restoration, this book contributes to our understanding of the rich cultural heritage of the past and its preservation for future generations.

Weight: 770g
Dimension: 180 x 253 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781606066966