Getty and Partners Assess 15th-Century Memling Altarpiece for Conservation
On June 24, 2026, the Getty Conservation Institute announced findings from its ongoing collaboration with the National Museum in Gdańsk to assess and conserve Hans Memling's altarpiece "The Last Judgement" (1467–1473). Using advanced imaging techniques including 3D digital microscopy and speckle interferometry, conservators found the work to be "amazingly good" for its age, but determined that transport risks remain too high for the 550-year-old triptych to travel. The painting, housed in a former monastery, has survived theft and war. The team evaluated the aging display case and proposed replacements to maintain stable humidity without mechanical systems.
The Signal
The conservation approach reflects a broader trend in museum practice: balancing preservation with public access in historic buildings. By employing risk assessment frameworks like the ABC Method, the team prioritized practicality over perfection—keeping the altarpiece in its original context despite evacuation challenges. The ongoing, in-gallery conservation work allows visitors to observe the process, offering transparency and education. For other institutions with fragile Old Master works, this case provides a replicable model for data-driven, low-energy conservation solutions that respect both the object and its setting.
- Artists: Hans Memling
- People: Michał Łukomski, Cátia Viegas Wesołowska
- Museums: National Museum in Gdańsk
- Locations: Gdańsk
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