The article discusses the discovery and analysis of 15th-century paintings in Tavira panels through radiographs taken between 1955 and 1960, revealing hidden artworks. In 1995, further radiographs unveiled unexpected findings, leading to ongoing research on the materials and techniques used in the paintings. Challenges in wood identification and inconclusive results from pigment analysis have been noted. The presence of titanium white pigment and other elements in the original paint has been identified, shedding light on the artistic process.
Restoration efforts in 1963 aimed to address the damage caused by indecision regarding the treatment of the panels, ultimately disrupting the aesthetic unity of the artwork. Expert contributions from scholars like Vítor Serrão and Isabel Macieira have provided valuable insights into the historical and artistic context of the paintings. The study highlights a shift in restoration criteria from chronological to iconographic considerations, emphasizing the preservation of the paintings’ original state.
The decision to focus on documenting the paintings before irreversible interventions reflects a concern for historical accuracy. However, this approach has raised questions about the impact on the overall aesthetic coherence of the artwork. Ongoing research and analysis by experts continue to deepen our understanding of the Tavira panels and their significance in the context of Portuguese art history.
