Eight Angels Found Hiding Nearly in Plain Sight

 Eight Angels Found Hiding Nearly in Plain Sight

In a remarkable restoration effort, conservators at Boston's historic Old North Church have uncovered eight painted angels dating back to the early 18th century. These artworks had been concealed beneath layers of white paint for over a century. New York Post

The Old North Church, established in 1723, is renowned for its pivotal role in American history, notably as the site where two lanterns were hung to signal Paul Revere's legendary ride in 1775. Wikipedia The recently revealed angels, characterized by their cherubic faces and wings, were originally painted around 1730 by congregation member John Gibbs. In 1912, during a renovation that favored a more austere aesthetic, these vibrant artworks were inexplicably covered with thick coats of white paint. New York Post

The meticulous restoration process, led by conservator Gianfranco Pocobene, began in September 2024. The team employed solvent gels to soften the multiple layers of overpaint, followed by careful manual removal using plastic scrapers and cotton swabs. This painstaking work has successfully unveiled eight of the sixteen hidden angels, with plans to uncover the remaining eight by spring 2025. WCVB This restoration not only brings to light significant colonial-era artwork but also enriches the historical narrative of the Old North Church. Visitors can now experience the church's interior as it appeared during the time of Paul Revere, offering deeper insights into the religious and cultural heritage of the period. WCVB

The project is timely, aligning with preparations for the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere's ride in April 2025. By restoring these angels, the church aims to honor its rich history and provide visitors with a more authentic glimpse into its past. Associated Press

For a visual overview of the restoration process and the uncovered artworks, you may find the following news segment informative:

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