Sculpture restoration
Reference articles are in English.
Architectural sculpture on the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam during cleaning and restoration in 2005. Source
Description
Sculpture restoration addresses breaks, losses and earlier alterations that impair a work’s legibility or use. Examination considers the stone, coatings, surface, joins and support. Proposed additions are assessed against the surviving work and available evidence.
History
The treatment of older sculpture has changed as conservation practice has developed. Modern terminology distinguishes restoration from preventive and stabilising measures, while recognising that one project may include all of them.
Commissioning
The proposal should explain treatment aims, any reconstructed detail and the retention of original material. The appearance of joins and additions should be agreed. Examination and completed treatment should be documented for future care.
