Chemicals behind decay of Van Gogh art
International scientists have discovered a chemical reaction that has caused the once-vivid yellows in Vincent van Gogh’s paintings to turn brown, according to a study published on Monday in the United States.
A super-sensitive microscopic X-ray has revealed a chemical reaction taking place where the paint meets the varnish, triggered by sunlight which causes yellow to fade, said the findings in the journal Analytical Chemistry. “This type of cutting edge research is crucial to advance our understanding of how paintings age and should be conserved for future generations,” said Ella Hendriks of the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam. The X-ray from the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility in Grenoble, France also showed a reduction in chromium “was especially prominent in the presence of chemical compounds which contained barium and sulphur.” That observation led scientists to believe that “Van Gogh’s technique of blending white and yellow paint might be the cause of the darkening of his yellow paint,” the study said. The best way to avoid such deterioration is to shield artwork from ultraviolet rays, the study said.
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Drunk Colin Firth forgets Bafta at a bar
London: King’s Speech star Colin Firth reportedly got so drunk post the Bafta awards that he forgot his Best Actor trophy at the bar.
The 50-year-old Britisher bagged the Best Actor in a Leading Role award for his role in the royal drama at the Sunday night gala, but he drank so much champagne that he left his gong on the bar, reported Daily Star.
Before hitting the hard stuff, Firth spoke about his plans to enjoy his win to the fullest.
“It feels amazing to win awards, but tomorrow I’ll be back down to earth with a bang, on the school run and taking the bins out. I might as well make the most of it tonight,” said Firth. —PTI
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