Description
The project aims to protect and preserve Czech cultural heritage by restoration of the Probošt´s Třebechovice nativity scene which in its scale does not have analogy in the European context. Work on the all-wood Probošt´s Třebechovice nativity scene commenced in 1885 and continued for more than 40 years. The maker brilliantly used all elements of folk arts available as well as the traditional vision of nativity scenes. He chose the clear wood-carving and kept the unity of the material including the mechanics, which is hidden from the spectators. This fundamental component allows the motion of particular figures in the display. The Třebechovice nativity scene has never been repaired or restored in its entirety and all the nativity scene parts are original. In an attempt to keep the nativity scene going during its working life, some unprofessional repairs were done. Today, some parts are at the state of disrepair, many belts and mechanics are out of order (broken and loosened driving wheel teething, broken bases of slotted pieces, shaft deformations). Thanks to the project the nativity scene will be completely taken apart, the central mechanics will be restored, the construction will be reinforced, slotted pieces will be restored and the nativity scene will be put back into operation. During the restoration original technologies from the end of 19th and the beginning of 20th century will be used. The restoration process will take place behind a glass wall of the exhibition where the nativity scene is situated, giving a chance to the passing-by observers to see the nativity scene despite proceeding restoration.
Summary of project results
Probošt´s nativity scene exhibited in Třebechovice Museum of Nativity Scenes ranks among the most valuable monuments in the Czech Republic and has no analogy with cultural heritage of this kind in Europe. Work on the all-wood Probošt´s Třebechovice nativity scene commenced in 1885 and continued for more than 40 years. The maker brilliantly used all elements of folk arts available as well as the traditional vision of nativity scenes. He chose the clear wood-carving and kept the unity of the material including the mechanics, which is hidden from the spectators, allowing the motion of particular figures in the display. The Probošt´s nativity scene had never been repaired or restored in its entirety and all the nativity scene parts are original. In an attempt to keep the nativity scene going during its working life, some unprofessional interventions were made. Prior the commencement of the project, some parts were in a state of disrepair. Over the decades, many figures had been damaged and mechanical parts showed signs of wear and tear and some became non-functional. Thanks to the project the nativity scene was completely dismounted, its construction stabilized, the central mechanics and scenes restored and finally set into motion. Overall structure restoration, including reproductions of missing figures, lighting repairs, securing exhibit cases and producing exhibit labels was carried out. Many of the methods employed in late 19th and early 20th century were applied during the restoration respecting the uniqueness of the original art work. Museum visitors could observe the restoration process through a glass wall. Planned project result was achieved. It was a project of passion which has helped to have the nativity scenes completely restored to its original glory. From long-term perspective, the project has helped to protect and preserve cultural resources and supported the development of cultural tourism in the area. The number of visitors to the museum has increased by approx. 1500 visitors in July 2016 compared to July 2015 and by 1000 visitors in August 2016 compared to previous year.
Summary of bilateral results