Bacchus and Ariadne [SEP] material used
canvas on which "Bacchus and Ariadne" is painted was rolled up twice in the first century of its existence, which had consequences for the painting. From the turn of the 19th century onwards it was frequently being restored to stop paint from flaking off, with the most controversial restoration being that carried out at the National Gallery between 1967 and 1968. This greatly brightened the surface of the painting, and came as something of a shock to many viewers, used to a heavy varnish finish. When discoloured varnish lying directly on
an "ecstatic moment of recognition [...], so immediate that Bacchus' foot has not had time to touch the ground as he leaps from his chariot, so shocking that Ariadne flings up a hand protest."
External links.
- National Gallery page
- High definition image on Google art
- Patrick Hunt, Titian's "BACCHUS AND ARIADNE" (1520–23) from Classical Art and Literature
- Titian, "Bacchus and Ariadne", ColourLex.com
- Mapping Titian, "Bacchus and Ariadne"