The restoration of Peter Paul Rubens' gigantic altarpiece Enthroned Madonna Adored by Saints is in full progress. Due to the monumental size of the masterpiece, the restoration has to be carried out in a museum gallery.
The Enthroned Madonna Adored by Saints is so large that Studio Rubens takes up no less than a quarter of the Rubens Gallery. The KMSKA makes a virtue of necessity and is creating a special setting for it: Studio Rubens. There, the masterpiece will undergo two years of patient restoration.
The scanning and analysis of the canvas; the removal of varnish; the treatment of the reverse side; the application of the new coat of varnish ... Each step in the process requires the patience of a saint.
Restorers and researchers have been working intensively for months on devising an imposing scaffold in order to make the Enthroned Madonna sparkle once again. Visitors will be able to follow the restoration from a distance. Prior to the restoration, the KMSKA's collection research team, in cooperation with the University of Antwerp, will conduct research.
Follow closely the progress of the restoration with this fine video series.
- Until 25 September 2025.
- You will find Studio Rubens in the Rubens Room.
- Included in the admission ticket. No reservation required.