Conservation Project: Chinese Stele
After many years of research, conservators are treating a large-scale sandstone Chinese stele from the Northern Qi dynasty (550–577 CE). The stele has exquisite relief carving and important inscriptions on all four sides. This multifaceted project has an unusual history, exciting collaborations, and an innovative treatment approach. Please check back regularly for periodic updates posted below.
Research on the Chinese Stele
Conservation and Collections Management
After the stele arrived at the MFA in 2016, conservators conducted a detailed examination of the surface and documented its incoming condition. The…
Relocation of the Chinese Stele
Conservation and Collections Management
From 1980 to 2016, MFA conservators were actively involved in the care of the stele, periodically traveling to Maine to review condition and make…
Introduction to the Chinese Stele Conservation Project
Conservation and Collections Management
Relief carvings and inscriptions appear on all four sides of the red sandstone Buddhist votive stele, providing abundant information about the visual…