Lead Bust

The lead bust of Charles I situated outside Banqueting House, London, had been subjected to weathering and over the years had lost much of its painted surface resulting in areas of corrosion and small areas of metal loss around the neck. If left unchecked further corrosion and deterioation of the surface and core of the sculpture would have resulted.

The piece was carefully washed down removing the surface dirt and encrusted pollutants, after cleaning wax was applied to the surface of the piece.

The patination colour of the lead bust after cleaning and waxing, was visually pleasing and commensurate with the age of the piece.