The Barnes Foundation

During a paper conservation treatment, the Barnes Foundation discovered two unfinished sketches—one graphite and one watercolor— on the reverse sides of two watercolors by Cézanne, which depict the landscape of southern France: The Chaine de l'Etoile Mountains (BF650) and Trees (BF655), normally on view in room 20 of the Collection Gallery. The discovery marks the first time these sketches have been seen since at least the early 20th century, most likely prior to Dr. Albert Barnes’s purchase of the works from Leo Stein in 1921.These sketches provide a glimpse behind Cézanne’s artistic process and their discovery highlights the importance of conservation efforts and dedicated collection stewardship. To allow students and visitors the opportunity to view these sketches, they were displayed in double-sided frames, with both sides visible, from April 10 through May 18, 2015 in the second floor classroom of the Barnes Foundation. Following their display to the public, the watercolors were returned to their original locations.