The massive and painstaking restoration of this cathedral has created a storm of controversy. Many think that the cleaning has rendered the magnificent stained glass windows not nearly as effective when viewed against the centuries of grim and soot removed. Others celebrate seeing the incredible details uncovered. I will admit that seeing the restored portions against the darkened walls is startling. I will leave it up to each of you to decide which you prefer.
I think that it's jarring but thrilling to see the restoration work at Cathedrals etc. For a thrill you can imagine being in a time travel phase. I enjoy that sensation of a new experience that is based on something ancient.
ReplyDeleteI like the clearer look. Thank you for the images.
ReplyDeleteThe cleaner look is better, absolutely. Thank you for those wonderful photos!
ReplyDeleteWhen I was there we were told that they use some kind of soot/grime eating bacteria. It seems like a good way to remove the grime without using chemicals that could pollute the air or water. Has anyone heard the same?
ReplyDeleteOh my, incroyable.
ReplyDeleteWow.. this is amazing. It really shows the incredible work of the restorers. Very impressive.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the lovely photos of Chartres. The cleaning and its process are so interesting. What it must have looked like at the beginning.
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