CHARLES FRANCIS SUMMERS’ LA BALLARINA

PROJECT OVERVIEW

O’Sullivan Conservation was engaged by the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney to relocate and clean Charles Francis Summers’ marble statue La Ballarina.

Prior to treatment, the sculpture was carefully photo documented and condition assessed. A temporary exclusion zone was established around the statue for the duration of works. The statue and pedestal were hand-cleaned, and a biocide applied to address the presence of a green biofilm.  A mobile gantry was erected, a load lift pre-start undertaken, protective padding and lifting slings placed around the sculpture, and a test lift performed. The statue was then released from the pedestal and transferred onto a temporary timber pad. The new pedestal was prepared, and the statue set in place. Further information about sculptures at the Gardens can be found on their website: https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/learn/living-learning/primary-school-resources/garden-art/sculpture-at-the-gardens.

A conservation treatment report was provided to the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney detailing the works completed and including recommendations for future care and maintenance.