Martin Kemp on Salvator Mundi
May 4 2021
Picture: The Art Newspaper
Posted by Adam Busiakiewicz:
The renowned Leonardo scholar Martin Kemp has penned a piece for The Art Newspaper reiterating why he is convinced the Salvator Mundi is by Leonardo Da Vinci. The piece mostly focuses on the scientific evidence presented in favour of the attribution, evidence which was seemingly confirmed in the 'non-book' produced by the Louvre. Kemp also expresses his opinion on the claims made in the recent French documentary The Savior for Sale, which he calls "bogus" and "sensation-seeking".
The final paragraph too summarises his thoughts on the continuing saga:
The painting deserves better. It is not to blame for its ownership, past and present. Being owned by dealers, a Russian oligarch and a secretive Saudi prince tends to attract unfavourable attention. Poor painting! It is time the abuse stopped and the looking started.
