Slide Show

Garuda #70: Condition in 1998

Garuda #70 is located at the western enclosure wall south of the western Gopura. Prior to this conservation effort Garruda #70 was in an extremely bad state and a total collapse was imminent. The stone blocks that remained in situ were detached from the forward leaning wall and had shifted due to heavy termite infestation and uncontrolled vegetation growing in between the laterite and sandstone blocks. About half of the Garuda had collapsed. These stone blocks were buried in the earth at the base of the Garuda and were subjected to water and soil induced deterioration. The lower part of the Garuda was covered by a termite mound and entwined in tree roots, which posed an additional threat to the structure. The upper portion of the laterite wall was missing and allowed water to enter behind the remaining stone blocks. This condition accelerated the deterioration of the Garuda. Deposits from termite activities together with microbiological infestations and the extreme climate in the jungle led to weathering of the sandstone surface which ultimately could have resulted in loss of the fine carving.

Garuda #70: Before Repair, 2007

Garuda # 70 was chosen because of its serious condition and threat of collapse. If no action was taken the sculpture would have deteriorated further due to exposure to the elements.  The sculpture needed to be returned to a structurally sound condition and measures had to be taken to protect it from accelerated decay. WMF’s team excavated the missing stone blocks, reassembled them, and reinforced the structure.  Treatments included mitigation of termite damage, vegetation overgrowth, water infiltration, and stone conservation.   Khmer craftsman worked on the project under the supervision of a foreman, an architect, a stone conservator, and in collaboration with archaeologists from the APSARA National Authority. WMF senior staff reviewed work and provided technical advice as needed. Priorities were established as documentation and conditions analysis findings were reviewed. The goal of all WMF’s work at Angkor is solutions that are practical, use as much original material as possible, and allow for long‐term stewardship through monitoring of conditions and periodic maintenance.

Garuda #70: Condition Survey, 2007

Garuda #70: Excavation of Fallen Stone Blocks, 2011

During an archaeological survey of the surrounding area, missing stones from Garuda #70 were identified, fully excavated, documented in place, and then moved to the workshop for cleaning, testing, and conservation. Accumulated soil resulting from termite activity along with threatening vegetation was removed from the sculpture and the adjacent wall sections. As stone blocks had shifted away from the wall, it was necessary to disassemble the entire sculpture to address foundation issues and to reset stone blocks in a structurally sound condition.  Soil that had accumulated from termite activity was removed and the wall was treated to prevent future colonization by termites behind the sculpture.

 Garuda #70: Dismantling of the Garuda and Removal of Termite Infested Soil

The foundation was consolidated by insertion of a mix of compacted gravel, sand and new laterite blocks. The laterite enclosure wall behind Garuda # 70 was found to be in sufficiently good condition so no wall reconstruction was required. The condition of each stone block was documented to determine if repairs or treatments were required. When appropriate, decayed sections of the carved surfaces were consolidated by applying ethyl silicate solutions Consolidation measures were applied to weathered areas; cracks and fissures were closed with mortar and grouting, and stone pieces were reattached using fiber glass dowels and epoxy based structural adhesive.

Garuda #70: Dismantling, 2011

 

Garuda #70, during dismantling, 2011

 Garuda #70: Preparation for Reattaching Stone Fragments

After cleaning off the termite infested soil from the wall and applying anti‐termite treatment to the surrounding area, the sculpture was reassembled and anchored to the wall by insertion of stainless steel pins set in structural adhesives in strategic locations. Since three of the original stone blocks were missing, new sandstone units where set into place and carved to follow the original shape of the sculpture. After complete reassembly final adjustments to the stone repairs took place to close gaps and open joints in order to prevent insects from nesting and vegetation from growing back.

 Garuda #70: Reassembling the Garuda

Garuda #70: Carving New Stone Blocks

Garuda #70: Final Repairs to the Sandstone, 2011

The gap between the wall and the Garuda was filled in with a specifically developed mortar to prevent water from entering and vegetation from growing back. Finally, lead flashing was installed under the last course of stone blocks that crown the Garuda.

Garuda #70: Resetting Stone Blocks Atop of Garuda

A maintenance program was established and regular reviews of Garuda #70 are carried out by the WMF conservation team. Vegetation is cleared twice a year to prevent re-occurrence of termite infestation. Surveys take place four times a year and any changes observed will be addressed by appropriate interventions.

 Garuda #70: After Repair