Kimmelman, Michael

Review of the Sistine Chapel Restoration

By Michael Kimmelman, The New York Times, May 14, 1990

Overview of the Restoration (Page 1-2)

  • Completion of Restoration: The Vatican's decade-long project to clean Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel has concluded successfully.

    • The newly revealed ceiling is described as overwhelmingly beautiful.

    • A celebration was held in Rome with art historians and conservators to discuss the next phase: cleaning the "Last Judgment."

Public Scrutiny and Controversy (Page 2-3)

  • Debate and Criticism: The restoration has faced significant public scrutiny and debate.

    • Critics raised concerns about the solvent used (AB-57) and potential removal of glazes and details.

    • Despite the controversy, the restoration has received international approval from scholars.

Environmental Concerns (Page 3-4)

  • Visitor Impact: The influx of tourists (up to 19,000 daily) poses a risk to the frescoes.

    • Previous heating installations have altered the chapel's environment, which is now more detrimental to the artwork.

    • The Vatican has discussed climate control measures but has yet to implement them.

Commercial Sponsorship Issues (Page 4-5)

  • Funding and Control: The Vatican accepted sponsorship from Nippon Television, which has led to concerns about control over restoration documentation.

    • While the sponsorship has allowed for comprehensive filming of the restoration, it raises questions about the commercialization of cultural heritage.

Historical Context of Restoration (Page 5-6)

  • Restoration History: The history of restoration reflects changing perceptions of Michelangelo's work.

    • Previous restorers operated under different assumptions about the artist's intent, leading to varied interpretations over the centuries.

    • The current restoration reflects contemporary ideals and a post-modern desire to revive the past.

Artistic Impact of the Restoration (Page 6-7)

  • Reevaluation of Michelangelo: The restoration has altered the perception of Michelangelo's artistry.

    • The vibrant colors now visible challenge the long-held view of Michelangelo as a somber artist.

    • The ceiling's colors relate more sensibly to other Renaissance works, highlighting Michelangelo's transitional role in art history.

Conclusion (Page 7)

  • Overall Quality: Despite some criticisms, the restoration is deemed a significant achievement.

    • The Sistine ceiling may not align with some expectations of how Michelangelo's work should appear, but this reflects more on public perception than on the restoration's success.