THE CONSERVATION-RESTORATION OF ARCHITECTURAL STATUARY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ETHICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SCULPTURE AND ARCHITECTURE

Abstract

Between the conservation-restoration of several disciplines like sculpture and that of architecture differences in the application of the general ethical guidelines exist. Because some “objects” like architectural statuary cannot be classified under one specific discipline this paper attempts to outline the parallels between the applicable disciplines and to point out any inconsistencies, thus encouraging an environment in which the cross-pollination of the principles of a minimal, reversible and stable intervention can thrive and bridging the existing gap between the different fields. Two case studies undertaken by KIK-IRPA Brussels of the treatment of architectural statuary from around 1900 in Brussels are used to illustrate some of these aspects.

Keywords

• Terracotta
• architectural statuary
• polychromy
• polychrome sculpture
• ethical guidelines