VITA AETERNA. AN EXHIBITION ON RESTORATION

Exhibition concept: Martina Chadimová, Magdalena Nerudová
Exhibition design: Tomáš Džadoň
Graphic design: Lukáš Kijonka

The exhibition Vita Aeterna demonstrates that cultural heritage does not survive eternally on its own. Instead, it relies on the dedicated work of restorers and conservators who use their expertise and care to preserve these objects for future generations. Presented as an intervention within the museum’s permanent exhibition, this display explores the “invisible” work that bridges the past and the future. It highlights conservation and restoration as an interdisciplinary field that seamlessly combines science, art and craft. Visitors will discover the fundamental processes behind the preservation of cultural heritage – ranging from preventive conservation to the latest, most advanced methods. Every restoration intervention is illustrated using selected objects from the collections of the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague, which complement the permanent exhibition. Together, they guide visitors toward a deeper understanding of cultural heritage protection. The exhibition showcases a variety of approaches tailored to different materials and levels of damage, factors that ultimately dictate the choice of treatment. The objects are accompanied by expert texts, explanations and documentation, allowing visitors to compare the condition of the artifacts before and after treatment. This includes both newly displayed objects and selected pieces within the permanent exhibition. Finally, through the educational program “Touch the Process,” visitors are invited to try their hand at basic techniques, such as paper filling, retouching and assembling broken porcelain.