ÖZKD LXXVII Heft 3 Generalsanierung Parlament, pp. 114-116, 2024/04/17
Generalsanierung des Parlamentsgebäudes 2018–2022
The ministerial staircase is one of four similarly constructed grand staircases in the parliament building. Theophil Hansen’s attention to detail is particularly pronounced in his work on the ministerial staircase. One example of this is the wide variety of ball chains between the herms. The spaces between the herms are filled with the aforementioned suspended chains, which consist of balls, medallions and bells of varying sizes. Two additional delicate, vertical rounded rods were installed on site to further reduce the spaces between the herms by the stairwell and in the breastwork. Several volutes, acanthus leaves and lion heads complete the sumptuous impression created by the ministerial staircase. The damage described in the report was substantial. Many of the decorative trims had to be supplemented and replaced. At the outset of the restoration process, the task of repairing the chains seemed almost impossible. The result of thorough, gentle cleaning and a great deal of retouching and professional conservation was an outstanding feat of restoration.
