Desperately Seeking Conservation
13 October 2009 – 3 January
2010
The Adopt an Old Master scheme was started at
Dulwich Picture Gallery in 1988. The project ensures the ongoing
preservation of the collection and 2007 marked the celebration of
the 100th adoption. Individuals or groups give the
Gallery the money to conserve a picture, and ‘adopt’ it, often in
memory of a Friend of the Gallery. The idea has been copied
by many other museums.
There are still many important paintings in
store desperately seeking attention before they can be put on
public display. This display focuses on a group of works that are
in need of restoration. Particularly important are two large
canvases, which have not been on public display since World War II:
a Saint Cecilia by a still unidentified Bolognese
artist, and Venus and Adonis by the workshop of Titian.
With conspicuous canvas rips, areas of raised and loose paint,
flaking losses, holes, tears, darkened varnishes, tonal fadings,
overpaintings and abrasions, cleaning and relining are urgently
needed for these two paintings, and for many others in the
collection. A selection of works which are usually in storage, will
be exhibited to raise awareness of the conservation needs at the
Gallery. By adopting an Old Master painting members of the public
will be able to help Dulwich Picture Gallery preserve masterpieces
for the enjoyment of future generations.