The Jabach Portrait, Right Side Up

Michael Gallagher
December 22, 2014

Michael Gallagher adhering new strip-lining to the work
Michael Gallagher attaching a new strip-lining to the reverse of the painting. Photograph by Sophie Scully

«After the severe distortions at the top of the Jabach portrait were successfully reduced, the next step was to prepare the painting for re-stretching. This involved the attachment of a new strip-lining; new pieces of canvas were adhered along all four edges of the reverse of the painting using a heat-activated adhesive. (It should be noted that these can be easily removed in the future if necessary.)»

Then the painting needed to be turned over, which is the subject of the short film below. The procedure was agreed upon in advance, following much discussion with fellow conservator George Bisacca, who essentially directed this operation.

Michael Gallagher and George Bisacca—assisted by Charlotte Hale, Jonathan Graindorge Lamour, Alan Miller, and Cynthia Moyer—roll the painting, which is lying on its face, onto a large cardboard tube in order to turn it over. First, the cardboard tube is lifted onto the reverse of the painting, and the top strip-lining is temporarily stapled to the tube. Next, the painting is slowly rolled onto the tube, and then carried back across the platform table. Finally, the bottom strip-lining is temporarily attached to the platform, and the painting is unrolled.

It is truly wonderful to see the front of the painting again and to be able to appreciate the full impact of the composition, now free of distortion. It will soon be back on its stretcher and upright. I can hardly wait!

See all posts related to the Jabach painting.

Michael Gallagher

Michael Gallagher is the Sherman Fairchild Chairman of the Department of Paintings Conservation.