Marble Sculpture Conservation

Air pollution cleaning consolidation marble sculpture stone terracotta abstract.

Marble sculpture conservation.

Howard extensively photo documented the pre treatment condition of the monument. The last section of the text explains elements of treatment such as disassembly reconstruction and the final state of the sculpture. First scaffolding and articulating lifts were brought in to assist in the cleaning process. The marble sculpture had been disfigured by a dark layer of embedded dirt and grime that had accumulated over many years.

Before any conservation treatment occurred b r. The most usual treatments are. Common sculpture repairs. Howard s conservators have worked on sculptures made of bronze metal stone wood and have experience with stone and marble monuments.

Magnesium silicate saturated with deionized water is a safe and simple cleaner. 3 there are cases of colour tinting of marble statues dating to the mid 19th century produced by john gibson and others working in the neo classical style. In it david rinne describes common problems encountered when conserving marble objects and the appropriate treatments beginning with the surface and progressing though to the center. As a general conservation measure however vulnerable marble sculpture and statuary are often protected with covers during the winter months.

Sulfuration is the main destroyer of marble producing imaginary not true patina. Other reasons for the discoloration of marbles are discussed. Due to this variety this specialty demands an extensive knowledge of sculpture materials and fabrication techniques both historic and contemporary.