Restoration complete on the south side of the Chapel!
18 March 2010
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Posted by: King's College
The restoration work to the masonry and windows on the south side
of the Chapel has now finished. The work started in September 2008 over the
south porch and moved eastwards along the window bays. The work included:
Restoring the windows. The glass has been cleaned and the
iron bars that support the glass have been repaired. The bars had rusted,
expanded and cracked the stonework that they were fixed into.
Cleaning the stonework. The stone has been 'conservation'
cleaned, which is a gentle clean that removes dirt from the pores of the stone
but is not abrasive enough to damage the 'face' of the stone.
Repairing or replacing sculptures. The animal figures and
crowns on the buttresses have been restored. They had been damaged by acid rain,
and two crowns and a dog had to be completely replaced.
The side of the Chapel overlooking the Front Court now looks fresher and
brighter, and is finally free of scaffolding. Work to the adjacent Wilkins
Screen is also drawing to a conclusion, and the work will move to the north side
of the Chapel as funds are raised.
The work is part of a £3 million five-year plan of essential
restoration to the Chapel. Income from visitor admissions helps with running
costs, but does not cover this refurbishment. Please consider contributing to help the restoration work. Donations can be made online or by contacting the King's Development
Office on +44 (0)1223 331313.