Berthe Morisot: Conserving Impressionist Paintings at the CMA

Join the CMA’s assistant conservator of paintings, Julianna Ly, as she discusses the recent treatment of Berthe Morisot’s Reading (1873), which was featured in the very first Impressionist exhibition in 1874. The treatment focused on removing layers of discolored, yellowed varnish coatings and thick, old restoration paint from the surface. During this process, remnants of former coatings, previously hidden, were revealed, raising the question: did Morisot initially intend this painting to be varnished? Through comparative research and analytical techniques, Ly discusses the complex, decision-making strategies paintings conservators use to present a painting and surface that honors the original intent of the artist.