How the Mysterious Lady in Red Is Revealed

How the Mysterious Lady in Red Is Revealed

We know little about the painting itself beyond the fact that it dates back to 1618 and that the mysterious "lady in red" was 36 years old when the portrait was painted. In his videos, Mold removes the protective varnish used to protect the paint, which yellows or darkens over time. The varnish on this particular painting dates back as much as 200 years. It is not unusual for restorers to remove varnish from paintings to restore their original color.

Oil paints are oil-based, which means they cannot be thinned with water. Soft synthetic brushes are used most often to apply them to canvas. The paints are thinned with oils such as poppy seed oil, linseed oil, or turpentine oil. To prevent the paint from yellowing quickly, I recommend using turpentine. The most practical way to protect the painting is with spray varnish for oil paints, as it provides thorough, even coverage across the entire surface of the canvas.

It is not clear which products Mold uses in his videos, but one of the most appealing options is turpentine mixed with other solvents that will not break down the oil paint beneath the topcoat.

But, like any kind of work, this requires experience, good products, and patience. The restoration field brings together historians, artists, and chemists who carefully study paintings to determine which varnish was used and how to dissolve it. Using test samples, they find out which solvents will best remove the yellowed varnish without damaging the original painting.

We hope Mr. Mold continues his work and brings the shine back to more precious works of art. For now, though, all we can do is watch and look forward to the return of the "lady in red."

Wishing you plenty of creativity, inspiration, and enthusiasm for your work.

Your devoted friend, Sabína.