Louvre's new Tiepolo is 'Expensive', 'Mediocre' and in 'Poor Condition'
February 13 2021
Picture: Louvre
Posted by Adam Busiakiewicz
La Tribune de l'Art in France has published a piece criticising the Louvre's recent Tiepolo acquisition.
Acquired towards the end of last year for a purported €4.5m, the arts magazine has called the ceiling painting 'expensive', 'mediocre' and in 'poor condition'. Its editor has given many reasons for these strong words, including analysis of the painting's provenance and conservation issues. Claims are also made that price paid was vastly inflated, considering the work had sold at auction in 2004 for €775,000. The photo supplied of the painting in raking light shows that the structure of the canvas and support is in a sad state, and a large campaign of conservation is likely to be needed.
The article also points out that the painting's provenance during the war is unaccounted for.
The Louvre are yet to reply to the criticisms raised.
