Friday, August 21st, 2009

Uncovering Hidden Paintings

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An x-ray technique uncovered the illustration below hidden beneath artist N. C. Wyeth's painting 'Family Portrait' (above). Courtesy of Brandywine River Museum

Van Gogh, N.C. Wyeth and other artists recycled canvases by painting over previous works. Today, museums scientists are using new X-ray technology to reveal the sketch of paintings buried underneath. Then they use chemistry to fill the colors in.

Guests

Jennifer Mass
Senior Scientist
Scientific Research and Analysis Laboratory
Winterthur Museum
Winterthur, Delaware

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Segment produced by:Laura Pelcher

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