NAVAS DE TOLOSA ALTARPIECE

ALTERATIONS 

Though we can still see the marks of their hinges, the protective wings to the altarpiece are missing, in addition to several items of architectural decoration, attributes, hands, etc. which have been replaced during different periods of later restoration work.   

Two of the original figures have been replaced by the figure of a Romanism-style monk dating from the end of the late XVI, early XVII century, and a figure of St. Matthias which probably dates from the XVII century.  The figures of the apostles have been moved and repositioned so many times, it is impossible to say exactly what their original location might have been.

Generally speaking, the altarpiece has undergone at least two extensive re-polychrome decorations processes.  In the XVII century, the main framework of the altarpiece, its surface and cross were redecorated and painted and the figures were painted in plain colours. This same process was repeated in the XIX and XX centuries.

Restoration work carried out between 1996 and 1999 served not only to provide an opportunity to study and conserve the altarpiece, but also to partially eliminate the painted redecoration that had been done in the two above mentioned interventions.

*Data taken from Fernández-Ladreda, C. and Roldán Marrodán, F.J. (1999)