Behind the Scenes: Framing Scene with Witches: Morning by Salvator Rosa

The four witch paintings by Salvator Rosa [1] have not been on view for quite a while. Jon Seydl [2], the Paul J. and Edith Ingalls Vignos, Jr., Curator of European Paintings and Sculpture (1500-1800) is excited to bring them back on view in the Reid Gallery [3]because they are such an interesting subject matter and "they don't look like anything else on view in the galleries."

Getting them up in the gallery was a challenging exercise in problem solving and collaboration among the curator, conservation technicians, the paintings conservator and art handlers. Here is a behind-the-scenes look at the process from the point-of-view of Dave Piurek, paintings and frame technician.

[4]

The round frame presented a challenge for Piurek. Rectangular frames have a bottom edge that simplifies measurements. This frame had to be measured on the center mark from an acetate template to ensure all 4 frames were being aligned precisely.

[5]

Each frame is uniquely crafted. It means each frame is its own complete problem.

[6]

The frame is flipped over to determine the proper measurements to accommodate the additional required hardware for hanging. New wood has been added to the old frame.

[7]

Piurek surveys the progress of his work. He says it took about a week to complete the project. Collaboration and consultation with a paintings conservator greatly contributed to the final success.

[8]

The frames are now ready for hanging with wire. Before Piurek released the paintings to the art handlers, he did a simulation to make sure they would line up properly in the gallery.