Anzac War Memorial, Sydney

• Minor corrosion was found on the Rayner Hoff bas reliefs.
• The window bars showed general dirt and grime.
• The bronze sculpture ‘Sacrifice’ was in good overall condition, with some dust and debris visible.
• The brass in-laid floor showed obvious oxidation and previous repairs to the joints of the marble floor had become visible.
• The brass plaques in the Hall of Service showed losses and flaking to the patination, and scratch marks that exposed bare metal.
• Green-coloured corrosion was visible in several spots, along with loose dirt and bird droppings.
• The gilded inscription on the two foundation stones, had areas of loss in the gilding, making the  inscription more difficult to read from a distance.

ICS conservators investigated and treated elements throughout the memorial, including:

• Conservation cleaning and coating of the inlaid brass floor in the Hall of Silence.
• Conservation cleaning and waxing of the bronze sculpture, ‘Sacrifice.
• Conservation cleaning of the wall of plaques on the vertical and horizontal faces, including treatment of corrosion and coatings.
• Conservation cleaning and waxing of the bars in the 16 exterior windows at ground floor level.
• Repairs to the joints in the marble flooring including repairs and infilling.
• Conservation cleaning of the bronze bas reliefs, including corrosion treatment and re-waxing.
• Gilding of lettering on stone plaques.

This beautiful building was conserved in time for annual commemorative services.  It continues to serve as a dignified and uplifting space for multi-generational contemplation and understanding; a reminder of the losses incurred through war by all Australians, and all of the armed forces and auxiliary services, from WWI onwards.

More information

https://www.anzacmemorial.nsw.gov.au/our-stories/our-stories/history-anzac-memorial

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