Renaissance Virgin and Child Discovered Under 19th-Century Overpaint in Eure-et-Loir Church
A painting depicting the Virgin and Child alongside Saint John the Baptist, located in the church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste in Saint-Jean-de-Rébervilliers, Eure-et-Loir, was believed to be from the 19th century but is now identified as a 16th-century piece. This oil on panel was recognized as a regional winner in the 2025-2026 Plus Grand Musée de France competition on June 10. Jonathan Graindorge-Lamour and Laurence Mugniot are overseeing its restoration. Graindorge-Lamour confirmed the oak support's age, while Mugniot, who has studied it since 2022, observed inconsistencies in its execution. Cleaning revealed cracks, vibrant greens hidden beneath dull layers, and overpaints altering nudity, indicative of evolving societal values. Caution is essential in the restoration process due to its delicacy, with additional research planned to ascertain its provenance and authorship.
Key facts
- The painting is located in the church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste in Saint-Jean-de-Rébervilliers, Eure-et-Loir.
- It was previously dated to the 19th century based on an inscription: 'donné par le curé de St Jean. 1852'.
- The oak panel support was found to date from the 16th century.
- It is the regional winner of the 2025-2026 Plus Grand Musée de France competition, organized by Allianz France and Sauvegarde de l'Art français.
- The prize was awarded on June 10.
- Restoration is being carried out by Jonathan Graindorge-Lamour and Laurence Mugniot.
- Cleaning revealed two angels that originally flanked the Virgin, as well as red draperies and a flower vase.
- Modesty overpaints from the 17th-18th centuries covered the genitals of the Christ Child and angels and the Virgin's right breast.
- The panel consists of five oak planks and will be treated by a support specialist before retouching.
- Further studies will investigate the work's provenance and possible attribution.
Entities
Artists
- Jonathan Graindorge-Lamour
- Laurence Mugniot
- Daniele da Volterra
- Michelangelo
- Pope Pius IV
Institutions
- Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste
- Plus Grand Musée de France
- Allianz France
- Sauvegarde de l'Art français
- Connaissance des Arts
Locations
- Saint-Jean-de-Rébervilliers
- Eure-et-Loir
- France
- Sistine Chapel
- Vatican City