I am a historic buildings adviser and I have been recently asked to provide my view on the proposed removal of an offensive symbol from a post-Reformation alabaster memorial in an chapel that is currently undergoing conservation. I am aware that abrasive cleaning of alabaster is never recommended. Nevertheless, due to a negative connotation of the symbol in question it is difficult to accept it as part of the social history of the place, which also happens to be a place of worship visited by thousands of people every year. It appears that the damage was inflicted by a pointed tool some years ago and although the incision is not deep, dirt that accumulated in the affected area makes it very visible. Obviously in order to remove it the principle of minimum intervention would be compromised, but considering how sensitive the space is and how offensive the symbol is, removing it appears sensible. Could anyone come up with any ideas on how this could be done? Of course a stone conservato r would be involved, but I would appreciate feedback from those of you who might have more experience with alabaster than I do.
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