 Reflected infrared digital photograph of
the
Virgin’s face (center panel), showing
the
artist’s underdrawing. Courtesy of Harvard
University Art Museums, 2006
© President
and Fellows of Harvard College.
|
 Detail of the Virgin’s face
(center panel) after treatment.
Courtesy of Harvard University Art
Museums, 2006
© President and
Fellows of Harvard College. |
|
Reflected infrared digital photography was used to study the
underdrawing made by the artist before paint was applied. Infrared
light penetrates certain pigments (most whites, reds, and yellows)
while being absorbed by others (carbon black, for example). It is
therefore useful in examining underdrawings that were made in
carbon black, as is the case with this altarpiece. In the triptych,
loosely drawn outlines for the location of the figures are clearly
visible, as are the folds of various robes. In some instances it
is possible to see that the artist changed his mind as he painted,
ignoring his underdrawing. |
