The restoration of "The Reixach"
The restoration of the altarpiece
Baron Etienne van Zuylen and his wife Hélène de Rothschild obtained the central panel of an altarpiece by Valencian artist Joan Reixach (c. 1411 - 1482). "The Reixach" depicts a enthroned Mary and Child and a crucifixion scene. The work hung prominently above the baron's bed for many years.
Archival photo of the altarpiece above the baron's bed.
The enthroned Madonna and Child by Joan Reixach.
Other work by Joan Reixach is currently in the leading Spanish museums. It is therefore very special that a painting by Reixach is in the Netherlands Public Art Property! It is not only a masterpiece, but also the only example of Spanish art from this period in the Netherlands.
Currently, the altarpiece, painted on a wooden panel, resides in Melissa Daugherty's restoration studio for an extensive conservation project. Together with Marya Albrecht and Gert van Gerven, and assisted by a distinguished committee of recommendations, she is examining the artwork.
We hope to learn more about the maker, provenance and ownership history of this altarpiece through material and archival research. Perhaps we will even uncover any side panels?
With support from the Rembrandt Association (thanks in part to its Friends Lottery Restoration Fund) and the Cultural Fund (thanks in part to the Keg-Thate Fund, the BGL Heritage Fund and the Bosker-Dillingh Fund).
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