BURGERWEESHUIS
location
Poststraat 45, 4301 AB Zierikzee
phase 1: research and proposal
July 2011 – September 2011
phase 2: pilot
September 2013
phase 3: conservation
January 2014 – November 2014
phase 4: writing of report
Currently working on, July 2015
client
Stichting Burgerweeshuis
mission
Technical analysis, structural treatment, conservation treatment of the 17th century painted ceiling
team members
Roos Keppler & Annefloor Schlotter – main contractors, conservation strategy and treatment, paint sample analysis
Johanneke Verhave & Kate Bangerter – paintings conservators
Maurice Steemers (Restauratieatelier Enkzicht) – wood conservator & structural treatment
This building’s name derives from the orphanage (Burgerweeshuis) that was located here in the 19th century. In the 17th century, the building was occupied by the mayor of Zierikzee, and remained the home of the city’s subsequent mayors.
The 17th century painted ceiling is situated in De Regentenkamer (Room of Trustees). Striking features in the room are gilt leather wall hangings and the painted ceiling. The ceiling depicts personifications of Gods in clouds, flanked by putti that represent the four elements: Water, Air, Fire and Earth.
This project is a joint project with Annefloor Schlotter. Together we conducted a condition and damage survey, followed by a conservation strategy and a planning. The conservation involves two main aspects: the structural treatment of the suspension of the wooden planks, and the conservation of the painted surface by removing several dirt and varnish layers.
After more than 300 years, the original, vibrant colours of the ceiling are revealed. With this structural treatment and surface treatment, the ceiling has been secured for future generations.
