Lost Art

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.

Stephen Sondheim’s Lost College Musical ‘Phinney’s Rainbow’ Rediscovered

Discovery of Lost Recordings

While整理ing his office, journalist Paul Salsini stumbled upon a CD that had fallen through a crack. Upon playing it, he realized he was listening to live recordings of Stephen Sondheim’s long-lost college musical, “Phinney’s Rainbow.” The full 19 tracks, totaling over an hour, had never been previously released.

Sondheim’s Early Work

Sondheim wrote the music for “Phinney’s Rainbow” in 1948 as an 18-year-old sophomore at Williams College. The book and lyrics were co-written with fellow student Josiah T.S. Horton. The musical satirizes college life at Swindlehurst Prep, a fictionalized version of Williams.

Themes and Leitmotifs

In “Phinney’s Rainbow,” Sondheim explores themes that would become central to his later work, such as longing and love. The song “How Do I Know?” is a precursor to many of Sondheim’s songs that express a yearning for affection and connection.

Sondheim’s Juvenilia

Sondheim was initially reluctant to have his early works released, believing they were not of sufficient quality. However, experts believe that these works, including “Phinney’s Rainbow,” provide valuable insights into his artistic development.

Rediscovery and Preservation

The discovery of the “Phinney’s Rainbow” recordings has sparked excitement among Sondheim scholars and fans. Salsini plans to donate his copy to the Sondheim Research Collection in Milwaukee for public listening. Additional copies may also be in circulation.

Sondheim’s Legacy

Sondheim’s impact on musical theater is immense. His works, including “West Side Story,” “Gypsy,” and “Sweeney Todd,” have redefined the genre. His early works, such as “Phinney’s Rainbow,” offer a glimpse into his creative process and the themes that would shape his illustrious career.

The Value of ‘Juvenilia’

Sondheim believed that it was important for audiences to see early and imperfect works to understand the growth of artists. The rediscovery of “Phinney’s Rainbow” serves as a reminder that even the most renowned artists have their roots in humble beginnings.

Additional Details

“Phinney’s Rainbow” was inspired by “Finian’s Rainbow” and then-Williams president James Phinney Baxter III.
The overture and the song “How Do I Know?” have been featured in various anthologies and albums.
Mark Eden Horowitz, a senior music specialist at the Library of Congress, assisted in tracking down a second copy of the recordings.
The Sondheim Research Collection is a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts of Sondheim’s work.

Significance of the Discovery

The rediscovery of “Phinney’s Rainbow” not only adds to the body of Sondheim’s work but also provides a unique opportunity to explore the origins of his genius. It is a testament to the enduring power of music and the importance of preserving artistic heritage.

Lost Courbet Painting Rediscovered in University Basement: A Serendipitous Artistic Triumph