Brose Contributes to Restoration of Crucifixion Sculpture Group

For the second time, Brose is doing its part to preserve the more than 300-year-old sandstone sculpture by Bamberg sculptor Johann Leonhard Gollwitzer. With a contribution of 10,000 euros, the family-owned business is helping to fund the restoration of the Baroque landmark. A severe storm in June 2017 caused extensive damage to the group of figures carved from sandstone. The Madonna figure, which is 2.10 meters (6′ 11″) tall and weighs almost a metric ton, broke into pieces when a falling branch knocked it from its pedestal.

In a project commissioned by the City of Bamberg, the stone restoration experts Bauer-Bornemann worked in close cooperation with the State Office for the Preservation of Historical Monuments to restore the sculpture, which has since been returned to its traditional location. Speaking at the ceremonial presentation of the donation check, Dr. Michael Swoboda, General Manager at Brose in Bamberg, commented: “With its monuments of great cultural and historical significance, the World Heritage City of Bamberg provides an attractive living environment for our 2,200 employees at this location. And this is why I am delighted that the Madonna figure could be restored and that our family-owned business can do its part to help return the over 300-year-old sculpture group on the Upper Bridge to its complete state.”

The total cost of restoring the upper portion of the crucifixion sculpture group amounts to 30,000 euros. The Bamberg foundation for world heritage, Stiftung Weltkulturerbe Bamberg, also provided funding in the amount of 10,000 euros. Another third was funded by the City of Bamberg. “The Brose company’s dedication to art, culture and historical preservation, as well as sports and numerous social projects, is fantastic and deserves our many thanks,” praises Mayor Andreas Starke.

The monument had already undergone an elaborate restoration in 2003 and 2004, at which time Brose assumed half of the cost. In 2017, there followed the scheduled restoration of the lower level of the piece for approximately 8,000 euros. The full restoration of the crucifixion sculpture group in 2017/18 spanned two years and cost a total of 38,000 euros. With the return of the Madonna statue, the upper level is now restored as well.

The sandstone sculpture was carved in 1715. The central theme is Jesus on the cross with Mary Magdalene at his feet. To the right is John the Baptist, to the left Mary. The lower level displays the evangelists Luke, Matthew and Mark in addition to two angels flanking them.