The Resurrection of Munch's Vampire

Varnished in 1957, stolen and damaged in 1988 – this is the incredible story of the extensive restoration of Vampire.

Directed by Andres Heger-Bratterud. Produced by MUNCH in collaboration with Både-Og © Munchmuseet

23 February 1988, Edvard Munch's famous painting Vampire (1893) was stolen from the old museum building at Tøyen in Oslo. Fortunately, the painting was returned 22 August the same year, but damaged in the form of a clearly visble scratch. Vampire was already in poor condition, as Munch did not always take good care of his art, and also due to previous restoration work from 1957.

Here's the story of the painting's unique restoration process, taking it back to its original form, closer to the way it was painted by Munch.

The project is supported by Bank of America.