Restoration of the inauguration window
The largest stained-glass window in De Nieuwe Kerk is currently being restored. Made for the inauguration of Queen Wilhelmina in 1898, this window consists of stained-glass panels supported by metal bridges.
A brief explanation of work on the window
The high and fairly weak stained-glass panels in the window openings are strengthened by glazing bars attached to the panels, which prevent the wind from pushing the glass in or sucking it out. These bars, which follow the design of the stained glass, are attached to the panels with lead laces and also secured in holes in the masonry columns, thereby creating a strong overall structure.
At least, that should be the case. It has been discovered that a number of these glazing bars on the window are too short and do not connect the panel to the masonry columns: they are literally hanging from the stained glass and making no contribution to increasing the window’s resistance to wind stress. The current restoration will increase the length of these bars, or replace them with new bars, which will also follow the design on the panel.
The work will be carried out between 30 May and 21 June.
