- Sculptures shift location to a fresh central storage facility in Potsdam.
The Prussian Heritage Foundation (PHF) has unveiled its latest storage facility, housing an assortment of sculptures and ceramics. The foundation representative revealed in Potsdam that these priceless artifacts will eventually be transferred into two structures situated close to the central train station in Potsdam. This transition process, the rep stated, will take several months. Approximately 5,100 sculptures and 6,000 ceramic pieces are scheduled to be housed in the approximately 3,900 square meter space.
The main purpose of the central depot is to house decaying sculptures that are no longer suitable for outdoor display. Added to this, small objects, including the tiniest metal sculpture, that are not permanently showcased will also be stored here. Restoration work will not occur within the depot itself. Some of the sculptures may not be restored in the near future and will remain permanently in storage, the rep disclosed.
Minister of Culture of Brandenburg, Manja Schüle (SPD), remarked, "Durable materials, a streamlined building structure for efficient climate control, and solar panels on the roof, make the depot eco-friendly and secure, safeguarding cultural relics from damaging factors like moisture or heat."
The estimated worth of these artifacts is challenging to quantify. The representative admitted that the worth is influenced by various factors such as historical significance, ensemble value, or artistic merit.
In addition to sculptures from Potsdam, objects from other foundation castles and gardens - like Berlin and Rheinsberg - will also be stowed away in the depot. Determining their value is a complex task, the rep claimed.
The objective of housing the objects in appropriate storages allows for future scientific research and restoration analysis, the foundation stated. Moreover, spacious aisles for the use of lifting vehicles better conditions for the staff, said the PHF, totalling the expenses to 12.4 million euros.
The Prussian Heritage Foundation's decision to transfer historical artifacts from the current facility to the new depot is rooted in the deteriorating condition of some sculptures, making them unsuitable for outdoor display. The history of the foundation greatly emphasizes its commitment to preserving these priceless artifacts, ensuring they are protected from environmental factors while also providing space for future research and restoration.
