CONSERVATION-RESTORATION OF THE SCULPTURE OF OUR LADY OF SORROWS IN THE CATHEDRAL OF PELOTAS

Abstract

This paper presents the conservation-restoration work done on the polychrome wood sculpture representing Nossa Senhora das Dores, belonging to the sculpture collection of the Metropolitan Cathedral São Francisco de Paula, in the city of Pelotas. A cultural and historical survey through documental and qualitative research was carried out on the image, which is part of the Via Crucis celebration. Knowing about the relationship between the image and the believers, the conservation-restoration process of the work was carried out. After the photographic documentation, interventions were started by adding missing areas of the support, leveling areas where polychrome layer was lost, and carrying out its chromatic reintegration. A proposal was also made for the conditioning of the original mantle of Our Lady, which presented damage due to inadequate storage conditions. As a result, the integrity of the property's appearance was obtained, allowing its permanence in religious activities and ensuring its identification and enjoyment by the community.