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Kunsthaus Zürich

Securing the support construction to the Gate

The upper, still intact transversal reinforcement beams of the original iron structure are connected to the support construction thus creating a stable connection that does not touch the bronze.  Now it is possible to move the monument, and there is no danger of it tilting.  At this point the entire construction weighs fourteen tons.

Auguste Rodin
Occasion for the Restoration
Restoration Concept

Stage 1
The placement of the support construction
The mounting of the support construction
Securing the support construction to the Gate
Drilling of the base
Cutting of the base and lifting
Movement of the structure by means of chain hoists
View of the back of the monument

Stage 2
Cleaning and conservation of the front of the Gate
Initial tests
Methodologies for the exposure of the metal
Stabilization with Incralac®
Touch-ups
Protective layer
The «Battista» Example

Stage 3
Measures undertaken on the back side
The support structure
The substitution of the lower support structure and frame

Transportation
The building of the transportation frame
Moving The Gates of Hell on to a low bed trailer

Exhibition in London

The securing of the support construction on to the intact transversal beams of the Gate without touching the bronze (Photo: K. Mürer)
The securing of the support construction on to the intact transversal beams of the Gate without touching the bronze
(Photo: K. Mürer)