Bronzing an Cemetery's Crucifix
An outdoor crucifix has stood prominently at St. Vincent’s Cemetery for many decades. Over time, exposure to the elements has weathered the steel cross and compromised the structural integrity of the corpus. Heritage Restoration was engaged to undertake a comprehensive restoration, ensuring the crucifix continues to provide a meaningful symbol of comfort for those who mourn their loved ones interred on the grounds.
Details
Extending from a granite slab, the steel cross beam stood approximately thirty feet tall. While structurally sound, the steel was heavily rusted and discolored. The life-size six-foot corpus, likely made of tin or zinc, was painted and showed significant deterioration, including splitting feet requiring sealing. On-site analysis indicated little maintenance had occurred in the past three to five decades.
Both the cross and corpus underwent thorough cleaning and smoothing. Repairs were made to the split metal, and a weep hole was added at the base of the corpus to prevent water accumulation. A rust-inhibitive red oxide primer was applied and allowed to cure overnight. Following this, three coats of Heritage Restoration’s outdoor bronze and copper blend were applied. The corpus and INRI lettering were finished with a higher copper concentration and a textured brush technique to distinguish them from the cross.
After drying, the crucifix passed final inspection and is now fully restored to endure outdoor exposure for decades to come.
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