A piece of artwork, entitled “Haystack in the Evening Sun,” was largely unknown as one of Monet’s work, as his signature was indecipherable. However, through careful examinations, researchers in Finland were recently able to uncover the signature under layers of paint, confirming that the piece is indeed a Monet painting.
Researchers traveled with the painting to the University of Jyvaskyla for further examination, and were able to identify and authenticate the work using what is known as a hyper spectral camera, which can see beneath the initial layer of paint. It works by using an x-ray light method. This allows for those viewing it, to see and measure fluorescence. This method not only allowed them to uncover the famous artist’s signature, but also the year (1891) that the painting was produced.
The hyperspectral camera gave scientists a chance to find information that would very likely have remained undiscovered otherwise. There is hope that this method will also be useful in identifying and authenticating other such works in the future.
Furthermore, this particular technology also allows researchers to identify the materials that were used on the painting. This can be a critical factor in determining which works belonged to which artist, since many paint in very specific mediums.
Monet’s painting career, particularly, began when he was introduced to Eugène Bodin. He later improved upon his studies with Johan Jongkind, who was a Dutch landscape artist. As a young budding artist, he did not receive as much attention, or money, as he would have liked. However, he was able to use his disappointments and negative experiences to fuel his desire and passion to become a great artist. Thus, he ultimately had a very profound impact on the impressionist art of 19th century France. In fact, his style was so unique that it actually helped usher in a whole new generation of painters, as well as the modernism that followed in the 20th century.
Today, Monet’s work is very well known and can also be enjoyed in many museums around the world. For example, you can see a collection of his work when you travel to New York City at the Metropolitan Museum, with key pieces from the beginning to the end of his painting career. Some of his most famous works include “Water Lily Pond,” “Sunflowers,” “Impression Sunrise,” and “Self Portrait with a Beret.”
