Ep 12. Mystery of a Masterpiece

NOVA season 39 episode 12, titled "Mystery of a Masterpiece," is a fascinating exploration of an enigmatic painting found in the attic of a French house. The episode delves into the origins and provenance of the painting, attempting to answer the question of whether it is an original work by the famous Italian Renaissance artist, Raphael.

The episode begins by introducing us to the painting in question, called "La Velata." A young woman, believed to be the artist's mistress, gazes out at the viewer, her face partially obscured by a veil. The painting is strikingly beautiful and has captivated art lovers for centuries, but its origins are shrouded in mystery.

The first step in unraveling the mystery is to examine the painting itself. Expert conservators and art historians analyze the brushstrokes, pigments, and other details of the painting to determine its age and origin. They find that the painting appears to be consistent with Raphael's work, but there are some discrepancies that make them cautious about making a definitive attribution.

Next, the episode takes us on a journey through the history of the painting, tracing its ownership and location over the centuries. We learn that the painting was acquired by a French family in the 19th century and has been in their possession ever since. However, there are gaps in the painting's provenance that have led some to question whether it is indeed an original work by Raphael.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the episode is the use of cutting-edge technology to study the painting. For example, researchers use a synchrotron, a powerful particle accelerator, to analyze the painting at the molecular level. This technology allows them to examine the pigments and chemical compounds in the painting in unprecedented detail, giving them clues about its age, origin, and composition.

The episode also explores the art market, which is notorious for forgeries and counterfeit works. Experts point out the many ways in which paintings can be faked or altered, from adding or removing layers of paint to artificially aging the canvas. In this context, the mystery of "La Velata" takes on a new dimension - not only must experts determine whether it is an original Raphael, but they must also rule out the possibility that it is a clever forgery.

Throughout the episode, we meet a variety of experts and professionals who are passionate about solving the mystery of "La Velata." Some are art historians and conservators who have spent their careers studying Renaissance art; others are scientists and engineers who are developing new technologies to help solve the puzzle. Together, they work to uncover the secrets of this enigmatic painting and shed light on its true origins.

Overall, "Mystery of a Masterpiece" is a fascinating episode that will appeal to anyone with an interest in art, history, or science. Its blend of traditional art-historical research and cutting-edge scientific analysis makes for a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of a painting that has captivated viewers for centuries. Whether you're a seasoned art expert or a curious amateur, this episode is sure to spark your imagination and leave you pondering the mysteries of the art world.