Academic thesis
| Stefanie Ludovicy: | Conservation and restoration of a painting by Arnulf Rainer (Übermalte Landschaft, 1960) – Integration of large-scale losses on a black monochrome paint layer | Back |
| Language: | Original - Translation | |
| Overview: |
|
|
| Abstract: | The abstract painting Übermalte Landschaft (1960) by the Austrian artist Arnulf Rainer had suffered from its eventful history. In 1994, the black monochrome work of art was severely damaged by vandalism with red oil paint. The subsequent removal of the red oil paint through the use of solvents resulted in considerable loss of original paint. Fatty acid efflorescence and dirt deposits additionally impaired the aesthetic quality of the unvarnished painting. The water sensitivity and partial tackiness of the paint layers complicated the conservation process. The technological investigation and condition assessment of the work of art were supported by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and x-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF). An interview with the artist broadened the understanding of the artist´s intent and characteristic painting technique. Based on the results, a treatment proposal was established, focusing on loss integration to reinstate the legibility of the work of art. Agar gels were used to clean the water sensitive, vulnerable surface of the painting. The specific material and aesthetic requirements of the retouching materials are discussed; Golden MSA Conservation Paints were evaluated as suitable material and applied to an example area. |
| Keywords: | Arnulf Rainer, Retouching, MSA Conservation Paints, Surface cleaning, Fatty acid efflorescence, Monochrome, Unvarnished, Oil paint, Vandalism, Agar gel |
| Details: |
|
| Back | |
The Hornemann Institute offers only the information displayed here. For further information or copies of academic work, please contact the author or - if there is no contact provided - the secretariats of the respective faculties.