Hans Cranach. Hercules at the Court of Omphale

The purpose of this project subsidised by the Heritage Programme of the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs is to restore and analyse this work by Hans Cranach. The varnish has oxidised over the years and currently prevents a true appreciation of the original colours, nuances and quality of the painting. The restoration will basically consist of removing this layer of varnish, consolidating some of the cracks and adjusting old retouchings.

Meanwhile, the technical studies (X-ray, infrared and ultraviolet photographs, and chemical analyses) will provide accurate evidence of the materials and technique that the artist employed to create the work. They are also a vital preliminary step in ensuring that the restoration of a work of this calibre is carried out properly and safely.