The Madonna of Sorrows was recently examined at Harvard University’s Straus Centre for Conservation in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Scientists conducted a number of tests, including ultraviolet light examination, x-ray photography, and wood analysis, in order to learn more about the construction of this small panel painting.
This scientific study will culminate in an exhibition at The Cummer called “The Art of Empathy,” which will highlight the Madonna of Sorrows in context with other late medieval religious works of art. Other pieces in the exhibition, including paintings, illuminated manuscripts, printed books, works on paper, and reliquaries, will allow viewers the opportunity to fully examine the physical, emotional, devotional, and liturgical experiences of a 15th Century audience. The exhibition is tentatively scheduled at The Cummer in 2013.
If you would like to see the painting in person, come check out the Madonna of Sorrows, back on view in our Medieval Art gallery.