Academic thesis
| Ulrike Lang: | Back | |
| Language: | Original - Translation | |
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| Abstract: | The alabaster sculptures of John the Baptist and the apostle Andreas (?) from the treasury at Erfurt Cathedral are figures given by a donor at the beginning of the 15th century. Prior to their conservation, their visual appearance was dominated by an aged surface and increased soiling. Deterioration and damage to the surface could also be observed. These alterations were detrimental to the original intention of the artist. The objects appeared more as a document of their own history than as evidence of their original condition when first made. The intrinsic perceptibility of the sculptures and their settings were extensively changed by dirt layers. The aim of the restoration was to find cleaning methods which would return the alabaster and the painted surface closer to their original condition. Nevertheless, there was no intention to completely reverse the effects of the aged surface, not least for ethical reasons. Such a measure would only conceal entirely the history of the objects. The soiling on the surface of the sculpture required different cleaning methods for the partial colour coatings and for the stone. During the cleaning it became apparent that different degrees of cleanliness on stone and painted surfaces could be reached. In summing up it has to be said that the surfaces hereby did not drift apart visually, but that they drew closer towards their original appearance. The areas indicating skin now show their original bright hue again. The soiling on the stone surface could be largely reduced. The stone now shows a kind of soiling which is embedded in the surface probably as a result of its ageing process. Furthermore, layers of gypsum have been removed and a part of the pedestal has been complemented with alabaster. As it was not possible to carry out all restoration and conservation steps within the scope of his project, further measures are also being described. |
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