DRESDEN.- The Dresden Kupferstich-Kabinett, part of the State Art Collections Dresden (SKD), has begun the restoration of its largest artwork: the monumental preliminary drawings (known as cartoons) for the famous Procession of Princes. These drawings will be the centerpiece of a restoration project open to the public every Thursday, starting November 28, 2024, at the Japanese Palace.

The cartoons for the Procession of Princes were created by the historical painter Wilhelm Walther between 1869 and 1872. These eleven full-scale preparatory drawings, stored rolled up in the Kupferstich-Kabinett, measure four meters in height and approximately 100 meters in length when unrolled and laid side by side. From 1872 to 1876, these cartoons served as templates for the fresco executed on Dresden’s Augustusstraße using the sgraffito technique. When the fresco began to deteriorate, the cartoons were sent to the Meissen Porcelain Manufactory in 1904, where they guided the creation of the tile version of the Procession of Princes—today, one of Dresden’s most iconic landmarks.

Over time, the cartoons have borne the marks of their eventful history. They were even exhibited internationally, with three of them displayed at the Munich International Art Exhibition in 1879. The wear and tear of years of use and storage have left visible traces on the paper.

The Japanese Palace now hosts a meticulous process to clean, repair, and stabilize these historic drawings. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to witness the restoration process firsthand, thanks to the generous support of the Rudolf-August Oetker Foundation.

The restoration is expected to conclude in August 2025. Following its completion, the cartoons will be featured in the interdisciplinary exhibition festival, “William Kentridge. Listen to the Echo,” starting September 6, 2025, at the Albertinum. This festival celebrates the renowned South African artist William Kentridge, providing a fitting stage for the newly restored works.

Additionally, the Puppetry Collection will complement the restoration exhibit by displaying selected characters from its collection. These pieces serve as a creative link to the Saxon rulers depicted in the Procession of Princes.

This project offers audiences a rare glimpse into the intricate work of art restoration. Beyond the immediate fascination of seeing the process unfold, visitors will also gain a preview of one of SKD’s major highlights for the coming year. This initiative underscores the cultural and historical significance of the Procession of Princes while bridging the past and present through innovative exhibitions and restorations.

For Dresden residents and visitors alike, this public restoration project promises not only a deeper understanding of the city's artistic heritage but also a renewed appreciation for the timeless beauty of its treasures.