28TS.1

 

1. Angkor Wat: Churning Gallery Ceiling Project:

The ad hoc group of experts recommends that:

1. The width of the gallery varies due to earlier deformations of the structure, so a very precise survey must be made of the ledges to identify perfectly the location and scope of the deformations.

2. Using that survey, adjust as required by a number of centimeters the size of the gridded floral décor frame in relation to the minimum width measured from ledge to ledge and complete the decor with the addition of a decorative strip of non-prominent relief at both ends of each beam using a pattern taken from the carved lintels of the gallery. The strip will be inconspicuous where the gallery width is narrow but visible where the spread is widest.

3. For the top of the ceiling, in sections where it cannot be seen:

3.1. Prevent any warping of the ceiling beams by firming them up using perpendicular wooden cross pieces,

3.2. Look into the advisability of applying a preventive insecticide treatment to all woodwork,

3.3. Look into ways of providing a measure of ventilation in the empty space above the ceiling, while providing a closure preventing the bats from entering the interior space.

3.4. For maintenance purposes, put in a couple of hatches to allow access to the space above the ceiling, inconspicuously fitted on the underside of the carved decor frame.

4. Age the carved decor artificially by sandblasting. It currently has a very pleasing color. Preference should be given to putting in the overall ceiling apparatus after the sanding operation, then simply allowing the color of the wood to evolve according to the natural hygrometry of the site for a year or so and see if it would be advisable to apply any corrective patina to it to achieve the final coloration.

5. Draw up for prompt submission an implementation plan for the project as a whole.