Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi, Lost and Found

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The talk offers unique value through the firsthand perspective of the restorer who worked on the painting. Modestini provides detailed technical observations, such as the paint layers, pentimenti, and the orb’s inclusions, which are not widely known. Her argumentation is grounded in her expertise and direct experience, making a compelling case for the attribution. However, the argument is inherently subjective, relying on connoisseurship and personal judgment, which may not convince skeptics. She also addresses counterarguments, such as the orb’s optics and the frontal pose, with reasoned explanations, though some points remain speculative.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The talk demonstrates scientific rigor through the use of technical imaging, cross-sections, and historical documentation. Modestini cites specific evidence, such as the Cook collection label and the Hollar etching, to support the provenance. She acknowledges the limitations and controversies, showing a balanced approach. The title accurately reflects the content, which covers the painting’s loss and rediscovery. The speaker’s credentials and direct involvement lend credibility, though the lack of external citations in the talk limits verifiability. The description provides links to institutional pages, but no direct sources for the claims made.

The title accurately reflects the content, which covers the painting's rediscovery, restoration, authentication, and subsequent disappearance.

8/10

The speaker is a renowned paintings conservator with direct involvement in the restoration and study of the painting, providing firsthand technical and historical insights. The talk is based on her expertise and published research, though it is inherently subjective and lacks peer-reviewed verification.

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

• 02:00Introduction of the speaker and her background.
• 05:00Discovery of the painting at a New Orleans auction in 2005.
• 10:00Initial examination and cleaning of the painting.
• 15:00Technical analysis: panel structure, pentimenti, and paint layers.
• 20:00Authentication process and consultation with Leonardo experts.
• 25:00Exhibition at the National Gallery in 2011 and public reception.
• 30:00Sale at Christie's in 2017 and subsequent controversy.
• 35:00Discussion of the orb's optics and criticisms.
• 40:00Provenance and historical context, including the Cook collection and Hollar etching.
• 43:20Conclusion and final thoughts on the painting's fate.

• NYUAD Institute — Institutional page of the organizing body.
• 19 Washington Square North — Venue of the talk.
• NYUAD Institute Event Mailing List — Sign-up page for future events.

• National Gallery exhibition catalogue — The painting was exhibited in 'Leonardo da Vinci: Painter at the Court of Milan' in 2011, supporting its attribution.

• Critics' opinions — Several art critics and scholars have disputed the attribution, citing stylistic and technical concerns.