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VATICAN CITY – Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgment” Fresco Undergoing Delicate Restoration
Michelangelo’s monumental fresco, “The Last Judgment,” located within the Sistine Chapel, is currently undergoing a meticulous cleaning operation. Restorers are diligently removing a chalky white film of salt that has accumulated on the Renaissance masterpiece since its last extensive renovation three decades ago.
The Vatican offered media representatives a rare glimpse into the restoration process on Saturday. The cleaning is being conducted from a towering, floor-to-ceiling scaffolding that temporarily obscures the imposing fresco, which dominates the front wall of the chapel.
This intricate work is anticipated to conclude by Easter, in the first week of April. While the public can continue to visit the Sistine Chapel during this period, they will view a reproduction of “The Last Judgment” superimposed on a screen covering the scaffolding.
Vatican Museum officials explained that the current operation is a crucial but straightforward cleaning to eliminate the salt film. This accumulation is primarily attributed to the nearly 25,000 daily visitors to the Vatican Museums.
Fabio Moresi, head of the scientific research team overseeing the cleaning at the Vatican Museums, elaborated, “This salt is created because, above all, when we sweat, we emit lactic acid, and unfortunately lactic acid reacts with the calcium carbonate present on the wall.” He also noted that climate change plays a role, as increased visitor perspiration contributes to higher humidity levels, further reacting with the fresco.
Barbara Jatta, chief of the Vatican Museums, likened the film to a “cataract” that is relatively easy to remove. Restorers carefully apply sheets of Japanese rice paper, dipped in distilled water, to the fresco to absorb and gently wipe away the salt film.
A close-up view from the scaffolding reveals a striking contrast: uncleaned sections appear coated in a dusty, chalky layer, while restored areas showcase the original vibrant colors and intricate details. For instance, on the central figure of Jesus, a privileged observer can discern Michelangelo’s brushstrokes detailing his hair and the wounds of his crucifixion.
The Sistine Chapel, named after Pope Sixtus IV who commissioned its construction in the 15th century, holds a rich artistic history. Pope Julius II later commissioned Michelangelo to paint the iconic ceiling, including “The Creation of Adam,” between 1508 and 1512. Subsequently, Pope Clement VII commissioned Michelangelo in 1533 to return and paint “The Last Judgment.”
Other frescoes within the Sistine Chapel undergo annual cleaning, with restorers working overnight using cherry-pickers that are removed before public viewing. However, the location of “The Last Judgment” behind the altar, which is elevated by marble steps, makes these machines impractical. This logistical challenge necessitated the installation of the fixed scaffolding to ensure full access for the cleaning of the entire fresco.
The Sistine Chapel underwent a comprehensive restoration between 1979 and 1999, which removed centuries of smoke, grime, and wax buildup. Small, untouched patches of the pre-restored fresco remain visible on the upper levels of the current scaffolding, serving as stark reminders of the previously darkened state of the walls.
Rather than drastically reduce visitor numbers, the Vatican is actively exploring technological solutions, such as advanced filtration systems, to manage humidity levels within the chapel. The goal is to prevent the recurrence of the salty film and preserve these invaluable works of art for future generations.