Laser restores Leonardo's Sala delle Asse fresco in Milan

A laser-based restoration of Leonardo da Vinci's Sala delle Asse fresco in the Castello Sforzesco, Milan, was completed in 2019. Commissioned by Ludovico il Moro in the late 15th century, the room was originally covered in wood paneling before being fully frescoed between 1497 and 1499 as a pioneering trompe-l'oeil depicting mulberry branches. After centuries of neglect—including use as a stable by Spanish troops—the fresco was rediscovered in the late 1800s by architect Luca Beltrami under a layer of whitewash, then heavily repainted. A 2006 study revealed its degraded state. The latest restoration, conducted with Italy's Ministry for Cultural Heritage and Tourism and the Opificio delle Pietre Dure in Florence, used lasers from Gruppo El.En and Quanta System, operated by restorer Anna Brunetto. The laser technology, originally developed for medical surgery, precisely removed stucco layers without damaging the original paint. The work began in early 2017 and concluded two years later. The restoration was promoted by the exhibition "Sotto l'ombra del Moro. La Sala delle Asse," curated by Francesca Tasso and Michela Palazzo, running until April 19, 2020. The exhibition includes a multimedia installation highlighting restored sections. A monochrome section revealing Leonardo's hand is visible. After the exhibition, further restoration will continue.