PHOTOGRAMMETRY DRIVEN TOOLS TO SUPPORT THE RESTORATION OF OPEN-AIR BRONZE SURFACES OF SCULPTURES: AN INTEGRATED SOLUTION STARTING FROM THE EXPERIENCE OF THE NEPTUNE FOUNTAIN IN BOLOGNA

Abstract

Checking the irreversible process of clean-up is a delicate task that requires a work of synthesis between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, to define an effective operating protocol on a limited patch area to be extended later to the entire artefact’s surface. In this paper, we present a new, quick, semi-automated 3D photogrammetry-based solution to support restorers in the open-air bronze artwork cleaning from corrosion and weathering decay. The solution allows the conservators to assess in real time and with a high level of fidelity in colour and shape, the ‘surfaces’ to be cleaned before, during and after the clear-out treatment. The solution besides allows an effective and valuable support tool for restorers to identify the original layer of the bronze surface, developed and validated during the ongoing restoration of the Neptune Fountain in Bologna.