Polychrome & Decorative Surfaces

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Polychrome & Decorative Surfaces

The interior decoration of ecclesiastical buildings dating from the early middle ages to the 20th century can provide essential clues to the re-ordering of churches over the years

We are experienced in schemes of all ages, ranging from delicate fragments of medieval plaster with frescos and early decoration, through to late Victorian scraffito murals. Mortar, pigments and binding materials can differ greatly, and the expertise and techniques applied by SSHC have been carefully developed and sensitively implemented. We are able to carry out detailed analysis of a scheme in order to interpret layers and assess stability, thereby determining the most appropriate course of action.

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Testimonial

Case Studies

The Kimble Font image
The Kimble Font

This beautiful font contains significant evidence of historic polychrome. A report previously written by SSHC Ltd showed how the font was compromised by an unstable floor.  Evidence of salt efflorescence and high moisture readings showed the step upon where it stood was acting as a wick drawing up excess moisture.

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The Easter Sepulchre image
The Easter Sepulchre

This beautiful Easter Sepulchre is a significant example of the move towards the Renaissance displaying high quality carving with exceptional level of detail and extensive areas of historic paint (polychrome).

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The Reredos: St Michael and All Angels, Stewkley image
The Reredos: St Michael and All Angels, Stewkley

The Stewkley Reredos was designed by GE Street in 1862, a leading practitioner of the Victorian Gothic Revival. The programme began with structural investigations to look at movement and its causes; the decision was then made to extensively dismantle parts of the reredos in order to remove the iron cramps. These were found to be heavily corroded, and no longer adequately supported the backing panels of the reredos, leading to significant structural instability.

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