Expensive paints are utilized in the artistic endeavors of certain females
In the heart of Osterhofen, Germany, the Chapel of the Presentation of Mary and the Chapel of Mary's Sacrifice are undergoing a remarkable transformation. Two dedicated restorers, Barbara Fröhlich and Christian Pichler, are working tirelessly to revive the stunning Rococo ceiling frescoes, preserving their vibrant colors and intricate details.
Regardless of their personal beliefs, both Fröhlich and Pichler find the history and depiction of religion in these wall paintings fascinating. They approach their work with a deep respect for the original artistry and a commitment to preserving the frescoes' rich color palette and delicate details.
Each restorer is assigned a separate section of the ceiling to work on. Fröhlich is diligently working on the Chapel of the Presentation of Mary, while Angelika Greis and Ronja Loebowitz are meticulously restoring the Chapel of Mary's Sacrifice.
The frescoes in Osterhofen are characterised by shell-shaped and asymmetrical patterns, typical of the Rococo style. To bring these patterns back to life, each restorer has their own set of pigment colors, much like a chef's knife set or a hairstylist's scissors. Some of these pigments are quite expensive, such as genuine lapis lazuli, while others are more common, like red, white, ochre, and brown hues.
In the restoration process, a light primer is applied, cracks and wet spots are filled, and a special technique called the stroke retouch is used. Reversible colors are employed to ensure that everything can be reversed if necessary.
Interestingly, many restorers in the study are atheists. Loebowitz, for instance, is currently pursuing her master's in wall painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Stuttgart. Greis, a self-employed restorer for many years, is currently working on a face on the chapel ceiling.
Loebowitz and Greis are painstakingly outlining and reviving the angels and saints in the fresco, stroke by stroke. In the Chapel of Mary's Sacrifice, they are focusing on the Eustachius Gabriel fresco. Mother-of-pearl gold is often used as a substitute for pure powdered gold due to its high value.
As these restorers work, they are not only preserving a piece of history but also adding a touch of their own craftsmanship to these beautiful frescoes. Their dedication and skill are bringing new life to these ancient works of art, ensuring they will continue to inspire and captivate visitors for generations to come.
