Research project: Support the restoration of the three wax models on slate from the monument to Horatio Nelson

The project involves the conservation and restoration of three precious bas-reliefs in red wax set against black slate, created by Antonio Canova and dating from between 1806 and 1808. The works allegorically depict the birth, death and glorification of the English admiral Horatio Nelson, hero of the Battle of Trafalgar, and are closely linked to the design of the funerary monument conceived by the artist.

The reliefs correspond to the scenes on the sarcophagus of the plaster model held at the Museo Gypsotheca Antonio Canova in Possagno, thus constituting precious preparatory sketches that document his creative process.

The technique used is wax modelling, one of the oldest and most refined sculptural practices, widespread since antiquity and still widely used in the Neoclassical period. Thanks to its extraordinary malleability, wax allows for a meticulous rendering of details and has long been used as the material of choice for models and preparatory studies intended for the creation of works in more durable materials.

Between the late 18th and early 19th centuries, particularly in Rome, the use of red wax bas-reliefs set against black slate became widespread; this colour contrast evoked the aesthetic of classical antiquity and Pompeian decoration.

Currently, the three Canovian bas-reliefs are in an extremely fragile state of preservation, due both to the intrinsic delicacy of the wax material and to damage accumulated over time. In particular, the following issues are observed:

• numerous gaps and flaking of fragments, which compromise the integrity of the surfaces and jeopardise the preservation of the works;
• deep cracks in the wax material, with a potential risk of further detachment;
• surface deposits and abrasions, which alter the appearance of the surfaces;
• alterations and accumulations of particulate matter, which reduce the legibility of the scenes;
• conservation issues affecting the supports and wooden frames, including surface stains and attacks by wood-boring insects.

Following approval from the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities, specifically the Superintendency for Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape for the provinces of Padua, Treviso and Belluno, the project will begin with a thorough analysis of the reliefs. This will be followed by restoration work aimed at stabilising and properly preserving the reliefs, whilst fully respecting their historical authenticity.
 

• The restoration project will therefore be divided into the following operational phases:
• the consolidation of the most fragile areas and the stabilisation of parts at risk of detachment;
• the repositioning and bonding of preserved fragments;
• sealing of cracks using a specially formulated filler compatible with the original material;
• gradual and controlled cleaning, carried out through the mechanical removal of deposits and, where necessary, through the localised use of authorised products that have been tested beforehand.

At the same time, the slate supports will be inspected and the wooden frames treated with specialised woodworm-proofing products.

The restoration work will be carried out with full respect for the historical and material characteristics of the works, with the aim of preserving and passing on these rare and delicate examples of Canova’s creative process for future generations.

Support the restauration of the wax models