In a grand return to the public eye, Peter Paul Rubens’ renowned painting The Judgement of Paris is now on display at the National Gallery following a meticulous 14-month restoration. This masterful work, dating from around 1632-1635, has been lovingly restored by the Gallery’s Conservation Department with the support of the Bank of America Art Conservation Project.
The unveiling of this masterpiece coincides with the National Gallery’s bicentennial celebrations. On May 10, 2024, the Gallery marked its 200th anniversary, launching a year-long festival to celebrate two centuries of connecting art lovers with world-class paintings. As part of this significant milestone, the Gallery has embarked on an ambitious re-display of its collection, an initiative not undertaken in over 30 years. The restoration of The Judgement of Paris is a key highlight in this ongoing celebration of art and heritage.
The Significance of The Judgement of Paris
The Judgement of Paris is a pivotal work in Rubens’ oeuvre, exemplifying his skill and creative genius during the last decade of his life. The painting captures the mythical moment when Paris, a mortal prince, must choose the fairest goddess among Venus, Minerva, and Juno. This theme of divine judgment has been a recurring subject in Rubens’ work, but this particular rendition is among his most acclaimed and artistically significant.
Painted at the height of his powers, Rubens infused the scene with dynamic movement, vibrant color, and intricate details, making it a standout piece in the National Gallery’s collection. The painting’s return to public view allows visitors to appreciate its grandeur and the intricate details that reflect Rubens’ original artistic vision.
The Restoration Journey
The conservation of The Judgement of Paris has been a collaborative effort, involving scientific analysis and artistic expertise to uncover the painting’s rich history and restore its original splendor. Advanced imaging techniques, including infrared reflectance imaging spectroscopy (RIS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF), were employed to analyze the layers of the painting. These non-invasive techniques revealed that the painting had undergone several restorations since Rubens’ death in 1640, including significant reworking by a French artist between 1676 and 1721. This artist modified the composition, subtly altering some of the more provocative elements without concealing the nudity of the goddesses.
The restoration process also involved careful cleaning to remove discolored varnish and retouchings that had accumulated over the centuries. The conservators faced the challenging task of deciding whether to revert entirely to Rubens’ original composition or retain some of the historical modifications. Ultimately, the team chose a balanced approach, preserving elements of the painting’s storied past while enhancing its visual coherence.
Uncovering Hidden Details
During the restoration, fascinating details about Rubens’ working methods and the painting’s history came to light. Rubens had made numerous adjustments to the composition, adding boards to the panel to expand the space around the figures and altering key elements such as the positions of the goddesses and the peacock’s neck. The conservators also discovered the use of smalt and ultramarine pigments, revealing the artist’s choice of materials and his process of refining the composition.
One particularly intriguing aspect was the revelation of Rubens’ intended modifications, such as a putto (a cherubic figure) that was later covered up by a French painter. The conservators managed to strike a balance between Rubens’ original vision and the subsequent changes, allowing viewers to appreciate the layers of history embedded in the painting.
A New Display and Special Frame
To complement the restoration, The Judgement of Paris has been fitted with an antique late 17th-century French Louis XIV frame, specially acquired by the National Gallery. This frame not only harmonizes with the painting’s historical context but also matches the style of other significant works in the Gallery’s collection.
The painting’s new display is accompanied by a behind-the-scenes video, offering a glimpse into the intricate restoration process. Visitors can now admire The Judgement of Paris in all its glory, experiencing the vibrant colors and detailed imagery that have been revived through careful conservation.
Looking Ahead
The restoration of The Judgement of Paris is a testament to the National Gallery’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the world’s artistic heritage. As the Gallery continues its bicentennial celebrations, this masterpiece stands as a symbol of the enduring power of art to inspire and captivate audiences. The Gallery’s director, Gabriele Finaldi, expressed gratitude to the Bank of America for supporting this significant conservation project, ensuring that this iconic painting will be enjoyed by future generations.
For more insights into the restoration process and to see the painting up close, visitors are encouraged to explore the National Gallery’s newly curated displays and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of art history.
Author: Jonathan Thomas
Jonathan is a consummate Anglophile who launched Anglotopia.net in 2007 to channel his passion for Britain. Londontopia is its sister publication dedicated to everything London.