The Search for Violante: Restoration Episode 2

Diagnostic Photography reveals the state of conservation of three paintings from the Prior's Chapel at the Certosa di Firenze monastery in Florence, Italy, before restoration begins. It is used to reveal original materials and techniques used to produce paintings attributed to eighteenth-century painter Violante Siries Cerroti. During the process, conservators map damage and changes to the paintings. They also pinpoint the degradation of substances applied during previous restorations. Photographic techniques used during this phase include Visible light, Raking light, U.V. Fluorescence, Infra-red, and False-colour infrared.

The restoration and awareness-raising project featured in this video, known as ‘Accademia Women: Violante’, was organised by the Accademia delle Arti del Disegno (AADFI) and Syracuse University in Florence, and sponsored by the Advancing Women Artist Legacy Fund. The project involved the restoration of three paintings attributed to eighteenth-century artist Violante Siriès Cerroti at the monastery of San Lorenzo al Monte in Galluzzo (Certosa di Firenze) and included a grant for research and video documentation. Click the image above to view this video on Calliope Arts' YouTube channel.