Prado Restores Velázquez's 'Pablo de Valladolid', Called 'Most Astonishing Painting' by Manet

The Museo del Prado has completed the restoration of Velázquez's portrait of court jester Pablo de Valladolid, created between 1632 and 1637, which Édouard Manet famously described as "the most astonishing painting ever painted." Funded by Fundación Iberdrola España, the project focused on restoring the original dimensions of the canvas, which had been altered in the 18th century by the addition of fabric strips. Restorer María Álvarez-Garcillán chose to retain these historical modifications, concealing them behind a new frame. Utilizing advanced methods, it was discovered that the strips were made from the same material and a high-quality underdrawing was revealed. The restoration also eliminated discolored repaints, confirming the jester's costume featured a blend of lamp black and bone black. Originally, the artwork adorned the Palacio del Buen Retiro, highlighting Velázquez's groundbreaking spatial techniques.