213-Year-Old Painting Uncovered at Mission San Juan

From Mission San Juan Capistrano --

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA -- In a never before attempted public preservation effort, Mission San Juan Capistrano Museum staff and conservators carried out an investigative process uncovering artwork that has been hidden in the Serra Chapel for the last 40 years.

The original painting, which is one in a series of historic paintings that came from Mexico to Mission San Juan Capistrano in the early 1800s, was uncovered Thursday and said to be in relatively good condition, according to Mission Museum Registrar Jennifer Ring. 

The painting, "The Crucifixion," had been covered since 1973 by a replica painting because the original was in poor condition from years of exposure to harsh environment, movement and neglect, and the cost to restore the painting was too steep. 

Thanks to a generous donation from a Mission supporter, the Mission was able to contract the services of Susan Brown Painting Conservators and display Art Installation Services to perform the conservation effort in front of about 50 volunteers, parishioners and visitors. 

"I had no idea what to expect, this was a completely organic process and the results were breathtaking," said Mechelle Lawrence Adams, Executive Director of Mission San Juan Capistrano. "We are now inspired to do more!"  

The painting will remain on display in the Serra Chapel for the public to view. The next step is to raise preservation dollars to repair, clean and conserve the painting for proper hanging and repairs.  

For more information about making a donation to conserve this painting, contact Mechelle Lawrence Adams directly at 949-234-1300.