Restoring an 'undisplayable' painting | Behind the scenes in Conservation | 2/2 | National Gallery

In this episode, Larry Keith, Head of Conservation, and Kendall Francis, Conservation Fellow, explain how they approached the retouching of Piazzetta's 'Sacrifice of Isaac', an unfinished work with a daunting amount of painting loss.

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The National Gallery houses the national collection of paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The museum is free of charge and open 361 days per year, daily between 10.00 am - 6.00 pm and on Fridays between 10.00 am - 9.00 pm.
Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DN

[e.s.r]

I love that Kendall explains her process with such joy and confidence. It's wonderful to watch a professional at work, and taking so much passion in what they do.

[peckinpahlady]

Expertly presented. Nice to see a relatively younger person executing this mammoth task with such skill and confidence.

[GeriBee]

Thank you Kendall, you explained that beautifully. Please let us see the final varnish application! 🙏🏻

[mxrkxo]

the nerves needed for this job is beyond me, it really needed someone that calm...

[fredericolourenco]

I love this series on restoration and conservation! Well done Larry Keith and Kendall Francis! And please let's have lots more videos from both!

[kevinchan]

Kendall you have such steady hand and what incredible patience you have. Would love to see her do a video on the final result!

[emitch]

I have always been very impressed by restoration artists, who express their high awareness and conscious respect to the given artist's damaged works. Their bold approach to any work expresses a sincere humility unto themselves with the given artist's work. Thank you.

[ruadhscottygirl]

Stunning! Very, very informative woman with clear explanation. Such an asset to the museum.

[whtrabbit]

Great explanation of oil colors. Your passion to restore an old painting is truly a joy for art appreciation.

[groumeliotis]

It's mind boggling that all those white patches must be filled and blended perfectly with their surroundings, and everything must come together as a coherent whole. My attempt would look like a calico cat :) Thank you, Kendall, for sharing your craft, artistic sensibility, and passion.

[edrandomed]

I will show this to others and use this as an example of taking your time, being a good worker, and changing the present state of something to become better, like ourselves ultimately.

[a-complished]

She makes this daunting project seem so effortless. Great job explaining the process, I now understand how the conservator has to approach each work with such care.

[richardasplen]

Kendall Francis: An illuminating and insightful professional at work.

[joanholland]

Quite a task! Your doing a remarkable restoration 🍀 Thank you!

[marionphillips]

Love seeing these beautiful paintings cared for so lovingly. Love watching Baumgartner Restoration,

[moonglow]

This is just absolutely fascinating. Just love watching these type of things. Keep up the hard work!!
My first visit to The National Gallery was a seminal experience in my life. I was actually moved to tears by the beauty of a Monet painting.

[SomeInterestingName]

What a wonderful video to be randomly recommended!

[lorettabertoli]

Thank you from Italy Kendall!! Beautiful video!

[adambachert]

Artists of all generations thank you. Please continue to preserve our cultural history

[calanm]

I hope in next century ppl will continue to love this painting, and Kendall’s artistry will be an integral part of this work and be acknowledged for years to come! Brilliant knowledge and skill