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The level of pollution in the atmosphere of Hong Kong Central leads to very black soil deposits on the surface of the sculpture as shown here. This is after less than two years

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The sculptures are washed to remove loose dirt and soil deposits

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‘Oval with Points’ 1968-70 should have a variegated green patina which is revealed again on the left of the image after removal of black deposits

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Applying a clear wax to protect the bronze surface after cleaning. Waxes with a high melting point are used because of the high temperatures reached in Hong Kong over the summer

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Applying a hot wax treatment to Ju Ming’s ‘Taichi Series – Single Whip Dip' 1986. The sculptures are contained within hoardings whilst work takes place for the safety of the public

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Sometimes small areas of the sculpture are reversibly retouched with coloured waxes to improve their appearance. This is Ju Ming’s ‘Taichi Series – Right Heel Kick’ 1991

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Ju Ming’s ‘Taichi Series – Single Whip Dip’ 1986 (right) and ‘Taichi Series – Right Heel Kick’ 1991 (left) after treatment

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Applying a hot wax treatment to the horn of one of Dame Elisabeth Frink’s 'Water Buffalos' 1988

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Putting finishing touches to ‘Water Buffalo I Standing' 1988

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Hongkong Land Sculpture Collection

Since 2012 we have collaborated with our colleagues from Two Sticks Inc. to treat and maintain a number of sculptures displayed in and around the Landmark development in Hong Kong Central. This includes sculptures by Henry Moore, Dame Elisabeth Frink, Ju Ming, Lynn Chadwick and Salvador Dali. The environmental conditions in Hong Kong can cause rapid degradation of bronze, so the outdoor sculptures are regularly monitored, washed and waxed to ensure that they remain in good condition.

With thanks to:

Sherry Wong at Hongkong Land.

Roger Griffith at Two Sticks Inc.

Christopher Moore and Reinhard Bek (working with Two Sticks Inc.).

Sally Bowling, freelance conservator.

Lixia Adamcova for translation and assistance in Hong Kong.

Sculpture  conservation restoration  maintenance programmes 

Name

Hongkong Land Sculpture Collection

Client

Hongkong Land

Location

Hong Kong