RECOVERY OF AN ALTARPIECE AFTER MORE THAN HALF A CENTURY IN OBLIVION

Abstract

In the church of San Francisco in Antequera, Málaga, the «panel» altarpiece dedicated to the Virgin of the Antigua by Antonio Mohedano (16th century) was situated in the Cristo Verde chapel. In the second half of the 20th century, the altarpiece was dismantled and stored in the choir, gradually fading from memory until the Brotherhood of the Students of Antequera transferred it to the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Seville in 2021/2022 for study and intervention. The objectives include rescuing and digitally reconstructing the altarpiece, identifying original elements and modifications, establishing stylistic transformations and parallels, and enhancing its value through exhibition. The methodology faced challenges due to the altarpiece’s deterioration and limited initial documentation. Research phases involved technical and material studies, comparative historical-artistic analysis, and an evaluation of the conservational state. Initial results reveal significant gaps in the architectural structure and stylistic and technical discrepancies between the base and the rest of the bodies, indicating different periods of design and execution. Despite ongoing deterioration, the primary challenge lies in the collective memory loss regarding the altarpiece. The research aims to recover this forgotten heritage and contribute to cultural preservation.