Four Golden Horses in the Sun

Written in narrative form, this report summarizes the technical findings on the condition of the bronze Triumphal Quadriga located on the Basilica of Saint Mark in Venice, Italy. The report describes the metallurgical techniques likely used to cast the statuary, and identifies issues in that process that could have led to its current weathered state. The author theorizes on the preservationist’s role in balancing the relationship between art and science through the work of restoration.