What is an original, a reproduction, a copy, an imitation, a forgery? And could showing reproductions, especially of frequently presented, prominent works, be a way of preserving cultural assets? But what consequences does this have for our perception of the originals? Conservators and art historians do important work in museums by recognizing what is genuine and what is false. What do the backs of artworks reveal? How can the results of an older restoration be recognized? And what scientific analysis methods are available to us today to examine works of art non-invasively?

What is an original, a reproduction, a copy, an imitation, a forgery? And could showing reproductions, especially of frequently presented, prominent works, be a way of preserving cultural assets? But what consequences does this have for our perception of the originals? Conservators and art historians do important work in museums by recognizing what is genuine and what is false. What do the backs of artworks reveal? How can the results of an older restoration be recognized? And what scientific analysis methods are available to us today to examine works of art non-invasively?

What exactly is an original, a reproduction, a copy, an imitation, a forgery? Could showing reproductions, especially of frequently presented, prominent works, be a way of preserving cultural heritage? The ancient Elgin Marbles, the marble sculptures and fragments from the Parthenon, are among the British Museum’s showpieces. London and Athens have been arguing about their repatriation for over 120 years. Now the debate is gaining new momentum – from an unexpected source. A 3D robot programmed by the Institute for Digital Archaeology in Oxford is able to produce millimeter-accurate replicas using lidar technology. This opens up completely new perspectives.

High-quality replicas of historical fittings for doors and window handles help with the restoration of listed buildings. At Ventano, these are painstakingly produced by hand using traditional sand casting methods. The Bissendorf-based company also specializes in handmade replicas of cement tiles.

The Restoration Center (RED) was founded in 1976 as a municipal cultural institute in Düsseldorf. In Ehrenhof 3a, in the immediate vicinity of the Museum Kunstpalast, restorers from a wide range of disciplines work in close cooperation with each other. Some rooms had been empty since 2005 because the installation of an air conditioning system had compromised the statics. In spring 2023, the interdisciplinary institute reopened after several years of renovation.

We hope you enjoy discovering this issue!

Dr. Ute Strimmer, Editor in Chief Restauro

Click here for the magazine.

In the last issue, we looked at “Preventive conservation” – an approach to the long-term preservation of art and cultural assets that aims to prevent damage in advance or minimize the risk of damage. To the magazine preview.

Until now, the usual “push-pull-slide” motion sequence has characterized the opening and closing of interior doors. Simonswerk now offers an intelligent alternative: the “Keep Closed” magnetic locking system for wooden interior doors. Its discreet design also emphasizes linear and flush room concepts.

The combination of closing magnets and magnetic plate reliably holds the door leaf in its end position without current, noise or contact. The holding force can be infinitely adjusted as required, making opening and closing intuitive, smooth and quiet. The use of several magnets enables even doors with excess height and very heavy doors to be moved silently and smoothly.

Photos: Simonswerk GmbH, Rheda-Wiedenbrück

In addition to its convincing technical features, Keep Closed impresses with its filigree design. The hinge, locking unit and handle are finely coordinated. The door leaf and frame are flush with one another, and the locking technology is integrated into the frame and door leaf in such a way that it blends completely into the wooden surface. Alternatively, the locking magnet and magnetic plate can also be installed in the upper, horizontal area of the door. This means that the functional elements are completely hidden from view. Apart from the discreet handle, which is available in five different colors, no elements of the locking system are visible when the door is closed.
The innovative and design-oriented system is suitable for many areas of application – in both the private and commercial sectors.

Product: Keep Closed – the magnetic locking system for wooden interior doors
Manufacturer: Simonswerk GmbH, Rheda-Wiedenbrück
Awards: German Design Award, Winner 2019