Caspar David Friedrich's Monk by the Sea and The Abbey in the Oakwood are perhaps the two most famous examples of German Romantic art. Created between 1808 and 1810, these masterpieces from the Nationalgalerie sufferedsignificant damage over two hundred years, greatly marring their general appearances. With generous support from the Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Stiftung, the long-awaited restoration of both paintings began in 2013. 

The Alte Nationalgalerie's conservation department conducted a technical analysis of the works and – in close consultation with a panel of experts and with supervision from an advisory board – implemented the necessary conservation and restoration work. The extensive restoration project yielded new insight into Friedrich's painting technique as well as his concept of colour. Monk and Abbey now stand in a new light. Beginning 22 January 2016, both paintings will once again be on view in the Caspar David Friedrich Hall of the Alte Nationalgalerie, alongside a special presentation on restoration that will be on display until 22 May 2016.