c. 1560
(Italian, 1502–1567)
Oil on wood
Framed: 116 x 93 x 11 cm (45 11/16 x 36 5/8 x 4 5/16 in.); Unframed: 95 x 71.3 cm (37 3/8 x 28 1/16 in.)
Holden Collection 1916.825
The spiked wheel identifies this woman as the Christian martyr Saint Catherine.
How could treatment improve the appearance of this work?
Conservators assess how cleaning might transform a painting. Small rectangular cleaning tests have been made at the sitter’s left wrist and at the top of her shoulder, where the delicate veil meets her gray mantle. These tests show how careful removal of the yellowed varnish would reveal a much more vibrant painting. Treatment would also address retouching that has discolored over time. For example, small orange spots are visible on the woman’s red garment, as are opaque, darkened streaks on her face and in the shadow of her neck.
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