Galloping through the Ages

Conservation and Study of Józef Chełmoński’s Painting “Four-In-Hand” (1881)

Abstract

"Four-In-Hand" by Józef Chełmoński (1881, oil on canvas, 286 × 680) is one of the most illustrious and iconic pieces of Polish art. The monographic exhibition of the artist, planned for the years 2024–2025 in three national museums in Poland, prompted decision to undertake the conservation project of this excellent painting. It is housed in the Gallery of the 19th Century Polish Art in the Sukiennice. Conservation work has been accompanied by analyses of the painting’s technique and technology as part of the exhibition-research project financed by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage. Despite the sound structural condition of the painting, its paint layer required thorough cleaning. This procedure was essential to restore the artistic value of the painting, which had been distorted by layers of yellowed and darkened varnishes, deposits of dirt and discoloured retouches. Thanks to the long-term conservation efforts, this monumental and dynamic composition regained its artistic value. The thorough analysis of the painting resulted in the identification of its technical structure, the painting palette, and the methods and materials used by the artist. Spectral imaging accompanied by visual and microscopic analyses of the samples revealed the steps of the creative process, including compositional changes and the evolution of the chromatic concept of the work. The following paper describes the condition of the painting before conservation and presents the steps undertaken during the conservation process. An important part of the paper is devoted to the history of the painting: from its origin and acquisition by the museum, its fate during the war, and finally its most recent history. It also documents previous restoration work. This publication presents fascinating research results that shed light on the immense work of Józef Chełmoński.