ABSTRACT

This work relates on the restoration of two medieval polychrome stone sculptures from two different contexts around the Episcopal Complex in Asti, considered as part of different statues. Usually the restorer focuses on materials and art historian on shapes and style, as the orthodox tradition wants. The heresy, is to insinuate from a different point of view, the possible connection between the two sculptures. In fact, after an accurate study it has been possible to recognize the two parts as being the upper and the lower part of the same statue. The restoration proposal, beyond the cleaning of the statues, aimed at the recomposition of the two fragments. About the reassembling, it hasn’t been followed the traditional methods of drilling the work to put inside pins and adhesives, but an innovative method. With the help of 3D laser scanning and printing it has been made a rigid counterform that save stone from holes and can be consider as totally not invasive. A specific experimentation has been carried out in order to define the most suitable treatment for the superficial consolidation of the lower work (different from those used to consolidate the upper part). If this chose could be considered heretical, at the end it has been the best solution according to esthetical issues and chemical affinity. About the museum enjoyment, it has been proposed a solution for reconciling different needs (aesthetic, preservatives and safety reasons) and establish new possibilities exhibition.

Parole chiave/Key-words: 3d laser scanning; 3d printing; not-invasive recomposition; consolidating experimentation; orthodox tradition