'Spiral Theme' 1941 by Naum Gabo showing a small element to the right that had become detached
View of the sculpture from the side showing the detached element
Reassembling the sculpture with a supportive framework to hold the piece exactly in place while the conservation adhesive sets
The restored sculpture ready for display
These elements had become detached from Gabo's 'Construction on a Plane' 1937. The long curved strip was broken in two places and there were yellowed remnants of original adhesives still present
Detail showing a break where a strip of Perspex was attached. Remnants of old yellowed adhesives were still present
Positioning a large detached piece of perspex prior to the application of adhesive
Applying small spots of adhesive. The conservation adhesive used has a long setting time so various parts of the delicate sculpture must be held in position against a rigid support
The sculpture ready for display
Naum Gabo
‘Spiral Theme’ 1941 and ‘Construction on a Plane’ 1937
These beautiful early sculptures by Naum Gabo were made using cellulose acetate and Perspex. Over time some of the elements had become detached and the original adhesives had yellowed. They were cleaned and repaired so that they could be put on display to the public once again.
With thanks to:
Tessa Jackson, sculpture conservator, who assisted with this treatment.
The conservation department at National Galleries of Scotland.
Artist | Naum Gabo |
|---|---|
Name | ‘Spiral Theme’ 1941 and ‘Construction on a Plane’ 1937 |
Client | National Galleries of Scotland |
Location | Edinburgh |