Collection Connections: The Enamel Restorations of Alfred André

In the summer of 2025, a technical study was conducted on six important 16th-century Limoges painted enamels at the Walters Art Museum, with surprising results. X-ray radiography, multispectral imaging, and microscopic examination identified previously unrecognized restorations- and shed light on a forgery now circulating on the international art market. Working in collaboration with curators and conservators at the Musee du Louvre, these sophisticated and deceptive restorations have been tied to the workshop of the talented 19th-century Parisian restorer and notorious forger Alfred André. Detailed drawings and notes recorded by André or his assistants between 1873 and 1909 reveal the restorer’s process and hint at how he created forgeries that continue to deceive today. Join Greg Bailey, Senior Objects Conservator, as he shares more about this interesting study.