Content
Substitution of the corroded static elements such as reinforcements, anchors and screws (on the back side) with high-alloy chloride-resistant metal devices.
The major works on the back side of The Gates of Hell began in August. Michael Salzgeber and Samuel Zubler, two engineers of Firma Wetter, were put in charge with the planning and execution, in collaboration with the restorer Joseph Ineichen.
Instead of working on the actual poured bronze figures, this stage of the project was dedicated mainly to the substitution of the original and now fully corroded static elements such as the reinforcements and anchors.
In the past months a new support structure made of high-grade metal has been planned and built. In addition to the narrowly defined material requirements and the precise execution and mounting, the support structure needed to meet another set of important criteria: it needed to be such as to allow for an additional frame to be easily installed in order for the Gates to safely travel to the Royal Academy in London.
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
