To comprehensively analyze a painting, an examination should be accompanied by a stylistic study using Morellian
techniques. Morellianism is an empirically based method of separating false and genuine artwork that was developed in
the late nineteenth century by physician and art collector, Giovanni Morelli. Morelli's method for attribution seeks to
distinguish individual artists and workshops by idiosyncrasies or repeated stylistic details that arise in their works.
Morelli recognized that an artist, upon reaching a level of proficiency, develops formulas in the creation of figures
which maintain consistency and are sustained throughout his life, even as his style evolves. Through close study of
these repeated details, formulas are identified and mapped. This allows the observer to readily identify evidence of the
hand of a particular painter in a work like a detective matching fingerprints. The evidence lies in the workmanship of
both large and small brushstrokes and the artist's application of paints to create features such as eyes, collars or plants.
The painting's features are then matched with the unique formulas by which the painter is known. Morellian analysis can
be compared to handwriting analysis, which is accepted as evidence in law courts.
Although Morellianism is sometimes called a scientific technique, it relies to some degree on the experience of the
analyst.
By combining a general study and a set of consistency checks with Morellian analysis, one can produce a highly
accurate assessment of a painting's authenticity. With a detailed examination one can determine the age, origin and
materials of a work. A skilled Morellian scholar can then assess the stylistic intricacies of the painting and workshop to
which it is attributed.
Without Morellian verification, a painting cannot be considered authentic.
If you need to authenticate a painting or some other work of art, please contact us and we will help you.
Please contact us at info@artexpertswebsite.com or 1-386-676-0160.
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