The ‘Portail de la Mere Dieu’ of Amiens cathedral: its polychromy and conservation

Numerous studies and two recent conferences have been devoted to the application of laser technology to art conservation. The so-called ‘POrtail de la Mère Dieu’ of the cathedral of Amiens (Somme) has become the first major sculptural ensemble to have cleaning by Nd: YAG laser incorporated in its conservation programme (1993-96). The recent work has revealed polychromy which is relnarkably intact. Extensive historical and scientific research was undertaken prior to Commencement of work, and continuous dialogue between conservators, the architect, inspectors, laser engineers and conservation scientists led to a flexible, mixed approach to the implelnentation of laser cleaning, taking account of its strengths and weaknesses.