The Triptych of the Virgin of Montserrat, housed in the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption in Acqui Terme, represents a work of art of inestimable value, whose fame extends beyond national borders to major international museums, such as the Prado in Madrid and the National Gallery in London.
The artistic complexity and variation of its presentation, which may include open or closed panels, required a highly specialized lighting approach.
To fully appreciate the work, it was necessary to design a focused lighting system that adapted to the changing exhibition needs of the Triptych.
Located in the sacristy of the Cathedral, the surrounding environment had to be respected, avoiding light dispersion that could compromise the visual experience of the work.
The project
The carefully curated lighting project favored an indirect approach from the top of the vault’s impost frames, ensuring balanced and focused lighting on the Triptych without disturbing the surrounding sacred environment.
This was made possible through the use of a miniaturized linear system for ambient light, characterized by a diameter of only 2 cm, yet capable of delivering a luminous power of about 2500 lumens per meter, with a color rendering index (Ra) of 95.
For the Triptych, projectors from the Solar family were used, which, through the use of secondary optics, allowed the light to be directed only “where needed” without highlighting unwanted details.
The careful design of this lighting system allowed the artwork to be maximally enhanced without compromising the spatial and spiritual integrity of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption.
This example of excellence in balancing artistic prestige and respect for the sacred environment offers valuable insights for professionals involved in lighting in similar contexts, highlighting the importance of a holistic and highly specialized approach.
