Monument Vandekerckhove
Lead glass works
The first application of lead glass dates back to the 9th or 10th century. During this time lead glass was used to close off window openings. We are also the only ones who know how the window frames of the 15th century were being used. Many old frames were restored during the 19th century, whereby some valuable art nouveau and art deco window frames were lost. This is one more reason why window frames from the 19th and 20th century need to be treated with the greatest caution.
Group Monument has had its own lead glass studio since 1993. Skilled craftsmen from various backgrounds are responsible for the conservation and restoration of historical lead glass windows. This includes the removal of window frames, opening restoration documentation, fixing paint on the glass, cleaning polluted glass, removing and replacing lead, gluing and repairing broken glass, filling up lacunas, retouching, strengthening panels, etc.
Vision is also needed for renovation work. Group Monument always respects the standards set out in the Venetian Charter, as drawn up in 1964, and the guidelines of Corpus Vitrearum from 1989. The Venetian Charter contains international principles concerning the conservation and restoration of prominent historical buildings and monuments. Corpus Vitrearum is an international expert guide containing regulations for conserving and restoring glass.
Group Monument ensures that existing glass is given proper recognition, without losing sight of contemporary requirements. Some examples of this are the fitting of cross glazing and lead glass double glazing.
