Smiling Cupid, 17th century, Vasca dell’Isola, Le Gallerie degli Uffizi, Boboli Gardens, Florence

Conservation condition

The work presents a pattern of deterioration typical of objects exposed outdoors: biofilm and autotrophic and heterotrophic micro-organisms with consequent biodeterioration of the stone. In addition to a layer of loose surface deposits, a blackish patina covered a large part of the surface in the most exposed areas. Bright green algal crusts were also present, particularly on the lower section of the sculpture, on the left leg and on the inner surface of the drape at the back. Several types of lichen were identified, both circular and foliose in form, as well as mosses and pinkish deposits — likely also biological in nature — most visible on the right wrist and on the Cupid’s head. Wash marks were present on the lower section, particularly on the right leg, along with bird droppings, numerous cobwebs, insect remains and chrysalises.

Previous interventions

The base of the work is positioned on a raised support set below the original plinth and has been reworked and filled with pieces of chromatically compatible marble. The insertion of a pin to secure the right hand and the existing fills are attributable to earlier interventions.

Diagnostic investigations

Photographic documentation in visible light and UV fluorescence. Biological investigations (OPD Biology Laboratory).

Description of the intervention

The preliminary operation was the removal of the sculpture from its plinth and its transport to the laboratory. Cleaning tests were carried out on three key areas using four different products (biocides) and four different support materials. Once the most suitable biocide had been identified, the biomass was treated and the surfaces cleaned using chemical and mechanical methods, achieving a uniform result confirmed by examination under UV light.
In parallel with the removal of atmospheric particulate and biomass, earlier fills that were no longer fit for purpose were also removed.

Bibliography

• Pizzorusso C., A Boboli ed altrove, sculture e scultori fiorentini del Seicento, Olschki. Firenze 1989
• Piacenti F., La conservazione delle opere in pietra all’aperto: le pietre di Boboli, in Boboli 90, vol.2, Edifir, Firenze 1991
• Nimis P.L., Pinna D., Salvadori O., Licheni e conservazione dei monumenti, Editore Clueb, Bologna 1992
• Capecchi G., Pegazzano P., et. al. Visitare Boboli all’Epoca dei Lumi. Il Giardino e le sue sculture nelle incisioni delle ‘Statue di Firenze’, Olschki, Firenze 2013