The scientific research

Update 5 from the studio

Restoration of 'The Reixach'
December 2023

There is news from the studio where our "enthroned Madonna and Child" by Joan Reixach is being restored. Work has been hard and we are happy to share the latest findings and news. Scroll on quickly and discover the latest developments.

Restorer and researcher Marya Albrecht, in collaboration with Ella Hendriks of the University of Amsterdam and conservator Katrien Timmers of De Haar, will research the other ensemble of 15th-century Spanish paintings in the collection of Kasteel de Haar. An NWO grant has been awarded for this purpose.


Apart from Spanish attribution, little is known about these works. With a combination of art historical research, archival research and material-technical research, an attempt will be made to find out as much as possible about the paintings. This will include answering questions such as: What is the origin of the paintings? How did they end up in Castle de Haar? Who painted them? Were the paintings later restored? What materials were used to make the paintings?

An important goal of the research is to learn more about the biography of the paintings. How has the appreciation of the paintings changed over the years and what consequences has this had for the current condition of the paintings? In addition, the research offers insight into the creation of the art collection in Kasteel de Haar, which increases the castle's reputation as a museum, collection managing institution.


The proposed research also coincides with preparations for an exhibition at Museum Catharijneconvent in Utrecht, where a number of Spanish paintings from Kasteel de Haar will be exhibited. This exhibition will also provide an opportunity to share the results of the research.

The medieval dream
October 18, 2024 through January 26, 2025

The central panel of the 8-part altarpiece goes on a journey

Restorers:

Melissa Daugherty MA, PD Res
Marya Albrecht MA, PD Res
Gert van Gerven MA

Guidance Committee:
Prof. Dr. Henk van Os, art historian
Drs. Carol Pottasch, senior conservator Mauritshuis
Dr. Carl Brandon Strehlke, art historian
José de la Fuente, conservator panels Museo Nacional des Prado, Madrid