The damaged bench areas have been removed, a new block of marble awaits to be measured and carved
The new replacement block is set on one of the damaged benches to measure for the pinning process
Conservator Pikus takes careful measurements before beginning the arduous carving task
Conservator Pikus drills the holes in the bench to receive the pins which are affixed to the replacement marble
An overhead image demonstrates the careful measurements required to ensure the new marble will fit on the bench
With the pins set into the replacement block, the block will be lined up and secured into the holes drilled in the original benches
This image demonstrates how the two pieces are carefully aligned before they are joined
Conservator Pikus carefully lines up his tool before making a cut; initially large pieces are removed to recreate the shape of the original bench
The initial rough cuts to recreate the original shape of the bench
This bench is still progress, but it is gradually taking shape.
The marble object is now indoors, and Pikus is getting ready to carve the new seat for the bench