Did AI crack the code of a Raphael masterpiece? Experts weigh in.
The algorithm determines that the majority of Madonna della Rosa was crafted by the Renaissance master, except for the portrayal of Joseph’s face.
The age-old mystery surrounding Raphael’s “Madonna della Rosa” has been unraveled, thanks to advanced artificial intelligence developed in Bradford, England. This mesmerizing painting of Mary, Jesus, and John the Baptist has long intrigued art enthusiasts, especially regarding the attribution of Joseph’s face.
Professor Hassan Ugail’s AI conducted a thorough analysis, revealing a captivating revelation. Most of the artwork indeed bears the unmistakable signature of Raphael, evident in the brushstrokes and overall composition. However, Joseph’s face seems to be the creation of a different artist, sparking speculation about collaboration or a later addition. The debated lower section adorned with roses also carries strong indications of Raphael’s craftsmanship.
While this AI breakthrough doesn’t offer a definitive answer, it presents compelling evidence that Raphael, though the primary artist, might have collaborated with another talent. This revelation injects a new layer of fascination into the “Madonna della Rosa,” encouraging us to ponder the hidden narratives concealed within its strokes of paint.
According to Ugail, the computer is scrutinizing the painting in intricate detail. “It’s not just focusing on the face; it’s examining every element, learning about the color palette, hues, tonal values, and brushstrokes. The computer comprehends the painting on a nearly microscopic level, assimilating all the key characteristics of Raphael’s technique.”
In the Madonna case, initial tests revealed that 60% of the painting was attributed to Raphael. Upon closer examination by sections, the computer identified that the face of Joseph was not crafted by Raphael.
This groundbreaking discovery is detailed in a new paper published on Thursday in the Heritage Science journal.
Howell Edwards, emeritus professor of molecular spectroscopy at Bradford and a co-author of the paper, emphasized, “The AI program’s analysis conclusively demonstrates that while the figures of the Madonna, [Jesus], and St John the Baptist are unquestionably by Raphael, the portrayal of St Joseph is not and has been painted by someone else.”
The researchers extended their analysis to another debated painting, the Haddo Madonna, displayed at Haddo House, Aberdeenshire. Originally believed to be a genuine Raphael purchased by the 4th Earl of Aberdeen in the 19th century, it was later attributed to a lesser-known artist, Innocenza da Imola.