Specialist work inside Scone Palace chapel restores historic alabaster monument

Specialist work to restore the intricate alabaster monument in Scone Palace's gothic chapel has been completed. A four week project, this is the first time the monument has undergone restoration work since 1921.

The work inside the small Presbyterian chapel, which looks upon the famous replica Stone of Scone on Moot Hill, has been completed by a specialist mason after a report by a conservation architect identified a number of areas requiring restorative work on the monument.

The Italian alabaster monument depicts David Murray, the 1st Viscount Stormont, kneeling in prayer between the figures of his two great friends, the Marquis of Tullibardine and the Earl Marischal, who he brought together in friendship after a long feud.

Created by Maximilian Colt, a celebrated sculptor who became the King James I's master carver, in 1618, today's renovation work has included a range of extensive cleaning and repair work to maintain the precious monument.

Carried out by seasoned mason Ian Russell from G Brown Stone Mason Ltd, the entire monument has been intricately cleaned using a ¼ inch paintbrush and specialist dust extractors. Corroded dowels have been replaced where possible, broken off elements re-attached and missing elements have been sympathetically re-created.

The sword on the 1st Viscount Stormont has been fixed and strengthened. The shield was also restored by Graciela Ainsworth Sculpture Conservation in Edinburgh and re-attached.

The project has been overseen by Scone Palace's Estate Surveyor, Guy Hopson. Guy said:

"The alabaster monument inside our little chapel is a stunning work of art to admire and we are delighted to have been able to restore it to its original glory. The specialist work by Ian Russell from G Brown Stone Mason has been carried out with great care and finesse. We hope visitors will continue to enjoy viewing the monument and the story of Scone Palace's 1st Viscount, David Murray."

Scone Palace is currently open for the summer season with an exciting and diverse range of events lined up for visitors of all ages to enjoy, as well as the historic Palace itself and the spectacular surrounding grounds and gardens.

This Sunday, Scone Palace is hosting a King Robert the Bruce History and Heritage Event, where historical re-enactment group, the Strathleven Artizans will lead a day of fun activities to celebrate the famous King who was crowned at Scone Palace in 1306.

Perth Highland Games is being held at Scone Palace on Sunday 11th August where traditional Highland Games including tossing the caber, Highland dancing and piping competitions will take place amongst many other events.

Scone Palace's summer season runs from Monday 1st April to Thursday 31st October 2019. During October, the Palace and grounds open at 10.00am, last admission at 4.00pm with the grounds closing at 5.45pm. From May to September, the Palace and grounds open at 9.30am.

For more information about Scone Palace visit www.scone-palace.co.uk