Consider the debate among historians about art restoration. For example, in 2016 the Louvre Museum made the decision to restore Leonardo da Vinci’s St. John the Baptist.
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Description
Consider the debate among historians about art restoration. For example, in 2016 the Louvre Museum made the decision to restore Leonardo da Vinci’s St. John the Baptist. This sparked a debate regarding the altering of the image and artist intent. In this discussion students should consider the positions of the historians and decide should the artwork undergo restoration. Be specific in your reasons as you detail what the restoration would imply (the removal of glazing or varnish) and how it might impact (or if it will not) the artist work. Compare and contrast the results from the Da Vinci restoration.
- Did the restoration alter the artist’s work?
- How did the removal of the varnish change the work?
- Or was the varnish altering the artist’s work? How so?
- Does it change the way we experience the work? Or the content/meaning of the work?
- Don’t forget to respond to at least 2 peers (for a total of 3 posts). At least one of your classmate responses should be to the opposite position.
- In at least one post include an example of a similar situation of an artist that supports your argument (again, please include citation).
- Supply supporting details that support your counter argument or refute their ideas. Students might consider citing restorations that have gone wrong. Be sure and reference any sources for your position.
(Assignment time expectation: 3-4 hours)
