Metal | Ornamental Objects from the Roman Baths Sanssouci

Onloan: Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation
Date: around 1864

Brief description of specific task

The artefacts are four of eight ornamental objects from the Roman Baths in Sanssouci Park, which originally stood on console tables in the caldarium. They are approx. 270 - 370 mm high and approx. 180 - 260 mm wide and are made of (partly) fire-gilded brass and steel. The brass is corroded and has formed blue-green corrosion products in the depths. The gilding is very dirty and dusty and shows green corrosion products as well as black conglomerates (probably dust, corrosion products and lacquer). Furthermore, white deposits of cleaning agent residues and glue can be found.

The aim of the project work is to carry out an inventory of the objects as well as various examinations for the verification of alloy components and material residues (e.g. varnish, adhesive). Thereupon, a suitable restoration and conservation concept can be created and executed. Another aim of the project work is to work out the advantages and disadvantages of different installation situations in the Roman Baths, as the premises have difficult climatic conditions.

Implemented Measures

• Dismantling of the object
• Macroscopic examination (UV light: visualisation of the painted areas)
• X-ray fluorescence analysis (detection of fire gilding, alloy)
• IR spectroscopy (identification of the lacquer / adhesive)
• Raman spectroscopy (confirmation of FTIR results)
• Restoration and conservation concept
• Cleaning and exposure of the objects
• Packaging for temporary storage before installation
• Demonstration of different possibilities for the installation of the objects in the Roman Baths (installation of sample showcases / climate measurements)