Yervand Kochar’s “Self-Portrait” is an original work: Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports
The Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports (MoESCS) has announced that Yervand Kochar’s “Self-Portrait,” displayed at the National Gallery of Armenia, is an original work.
The “Cultural Property Expertise Center” conducted an examination of the piece and confirmed its authenticity. This conclusion was supported by comparative chemical analyses of the paint layers with reference data, descriptions of the front and back of the painting, the wear on the wooden edges, the original label of a French art supply store on the back of the work, and other technical details.
Ruben Kochar had expressed doubts about the authenticity of the painting, noting the absence of painted nail holes in the lower section. The Ministry removed the painting from its frame and demonstrated the presence of these details.
During a press conference held on November 20, Kochar’s son stated that he had concerns regarding the authenticity of the “Self-Portrait” and urged the relevant authorities to investigate the matter.