Lost Courbet Painting Rediscovered in University Basement
In 2016, workers stumbled upon a hidden treasure in the basement of the University of Pennsylvania’s dental school: a lost painting by renowned French artist Gustave Courbet. The discovery sent shockwaves through the art world, as the painting, known as “The Source of the Lison,” had been missing for over a century.
A Serendipitous Find
The painting was found in a box alongside other discarded items. It was covered in dirt and grime, making it difficult to identify. Lynn Marsden-Atlass, curator of the university’s art collection, was called in to examine it.
“The painting was in terrible condition,” Marsden-Atlass recalls. “But I noticed three letters: G-C-O. I had a hunch it might be a Courbet.”
Conservation and Authentication
Marsden-Atlass initiated a meticulous conservation process to restore the painting to its former glory. After careful cleaning and restoration, the painting’s true nature was revealed. It was indeed “The Source of the Lison,” a landscape masterpiece by Courbet dating back to around 1864.
To confirm the painting’s authenticity, Marsden-Atlass consulted with experts at the Institut Gustave Courbet in France. After a thorough examination, the institute declared the painting to be a genuine Courbet, much to the delight of Marsden-Atlass and the university community.
Rediscovering a Lost Masterpiece
“The Source of the Lison” is one of three known Courbet paintings depicting the Lison River, a subject that fascinated the artist throughout his career. The painting is a prime example of Courbet’s Realist style, which focused on everyday scenes and ordinary people.
The painting’s discovery sheds new light on Courbet’s artistic journey and his relationship with his patron, Thomas W. Evans, a dentist and diplomat who owned the painting before donating it to the university.
Exhibition and Legacy
“The Source of the Lison” is now on display at the Arthur Ross Gallery in Philadelphia as part of an exhibition titled “At the Source: A Courbet Landscape Rediscovered.” The exhibition showcases the painting alongside other works by Courbet and explores the artist’s life and legacy.
The rediscovery of “The Source of the Lison” is a testament to the enduring power of art and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. It is a reminder that even the most lost and forgotten treasures can be brought back to life, enriching our understanding of the past and inspiring future generations.