Understanding the Restoration at Chartres 1

A critical assessment of the restoration at Chartres Cathedral reveals significant insights into medieval conservation practices and the challenges of preserving Gothic architecture. The study highlights how the cathedral's restoration, undertaken between 1989 and 2019, reflects broader shifts in French conservation theory, influenced by archaeological advancements and political debates about art since the eighteenth century. By analyzing the process and issues raised during the project, researchers provide a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in maintaining such a monumental medieval structure. The work also sheds light on the original mural surface of the cathedral, offering a glimpse into its medieval appearance as studied by art historian Jurgen Michler.

Cohen, M. (2019). Understanding the Restoration at Chartres 1. The Long Lives of Medieval Art and Architecture, 281–296. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781351181129-17