Academic thesis

Zuzana Wibmer: Twelve panels from an altarpiece by the brothers Erri (Modena, 15th century, Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien): Technical examination, condition report and restoration of one selected panel Back
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Abstract: The twelve panels from an altarpiece by the brothers’ degli Erri from the third quarte of the 15th century are illustrating the life of Saint Vincent Ferrer. Originally they had been part of an altarpiece in the church of San Domenico in Modena. As part of the estate of the House of Habsburg-Este the panels were transferred to Vienna during the 19th century, where they entered the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum at the beginning of the 20th century.
One part of the thesis focuses on the examination of two selected panels (i.e., GG 6699: „Saint Ferrer is being tempted by the devil in front of the altar and while studying Saint Hieronymus in his cell; he is being consoled by the Madonna“, and GG 6693: „The procession of Saint Ferrer, who is riding a donkey“). The wooden supports, the painting technique and later alterations were studied. A variety of analytical methods were employed to identify the artists’ materials. Investigation of the varnish revealed various oil and resin based and one greyish proteinaceous layer (egg white varnish?).
The second part of the thesis is dedicated to the restoration of one selected panel (i.e., GG 6699: „Saint Ferrer is being tempted by the devil in front of the altar and while studying Saint Hieronymus in his cell; he is being consoled by the Madonna“). The varnish was thinned, partially removed and the discoloured repaint and old putty material were taken off, followed by filling the losses and retouching. In addition a method for the removal of the greyish proteinaceous layer had been tested by employing enzymes.
The findings of the investigation of the other ten panels have been recorded and summarized in tabular form.

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Keywords: degli Erri, Modena, 15th cent., panel painting, egg white varnish, enzymes, pigmented varnish
Details:
  • academic institution: Akademie der bildenden Künste Wien
  • kind of theses:  Diplomarbeit
  • main Tutor:  o.Univ.-Prof. Mag. Dipl.Ing. Wolfgang Baatz
  • assistant Tutor:  Mag. Dr. Anke Schäning
  • date:  2016
  • Language:  German
  • pages:  303
  • pictures:  502
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