Unlock the secrets of a hidden masterpiece as we uncover the story behind a mysterious 18th-century portrait in Oxford's Bodleian Library - and its surprising artist.
Join us on a fascinating art detective journey, exploring how over 80% of Britain's publicly owned art lies in storage, often unrecognized and unloved. Using the vast Art UK database, we follow the trail of a forgotten portrait of George Oakley Aldridge, a medical student from 1745, to reveal its true origins. Watch as meticulous research, scientific restoration, and connoisseurship combine to attribute this overlooked gem to the legendary Italian portraitist Pompeo Batoni, whose works captured the spirit of the British Grand Tour.
Along the way, you'll delve into the rich history of the Bodleian Library, from its medieval beginnings with just 20 chained books to its current status as a legal deposit library with over 10 million items and 153 miles of storage. Discover how Batoni's portraits became must-have souvenirs for British travelers in Rome, why his style set him apart, and what makes the Aldridge portrait uniquely compelling - including a rare, boldly painted facial scar.
Experience the drama of restoration as centuries of grime and overpaint are carefully removed, and learn how expert analysis and archival detective work confirmed the painting's true creator. See how the story of one artwork opens a window onto the world of 18th-century art, science, and society, and witness the moment when the Bodleian’s "unknown artist" painting is finally given its rightful place in art history.
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