Page 45 - Contemporary Art and Old Masters

AN INNOVATIVE MODULAR SYSTEM TO VIEW THE Tomás Fernández, Chief Financial Officer of
ORIGINAL VELÁZQUEZ COMPOSITION INCORPORATES American Express Europe indicates, “we are thrilled
IMPROVED TECHNICAL ASPECTS FOR PRESERVATION to contribute to this innovative and special project
for the Prado Museum. American Express is firmly
The new system consists of a thin, modular wall which committed to conservation of artistic heritage of Spain
will cover the additions of the painting and frame the and Europe and we strongly believe in the role of
Velázquez composition. The system addresses the private corporations in protecting our cultural legacy.
dual requirements of aesthetically integrating the We thank the Prado Museum and American Friends
work into the gallery and including technical advances for their efforts so that we may continue enjoying this
for preservation and protection. The installation is iconic artwork for a very long time.”
undetectable to the viewer, providing the most natural
experience between the visitor and Velázquez’s Christina Simmons, Executive Director of American
masterpiece. Friends of the Prado Museum, highlights their
involvement in projects of conservation for the Prado
The design unites aesthetic criteria and preventative Museum, “ to support the institution and spread
conservation by incorporating elements which would knowledge of its magnificent collections in the
protect the painting from adverse conditions and United States.” “We greatly appreciate the generous
employing sustainable materials; it will serve as a grant from the American Express Foundation. Their
reference for future museum installations. sensitivity and ongoing commitment to culture make
this collaboration possible.”
The new framing system, developed by the Museo Nacional del Prado
with the support of American Friends of the Prado Museum thanks to
the sponsorship of American Express Foundation, contributes to a better
understanding of the work envisioned by Velazquez by covering yet
protecting the additions, which as historial additions should not be lost.
Image of The Spinners with the panel open. Photo © Museo Nacional del
Prado. Image of The Spinners with the panel open. Photo © Museo Nacional del Prado.

WORLD of ART 45