Bringing History to Life: Conservation of the Alexander Frieze Underway at The Harris

A new chapter begins for the Alexander Frieze at The Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library, thanks to awards totalling £25,000 gifted generously from the Pilgrim Trust, Henry Moore Foundation and Friends of the Harris to support conservation and redisplay of the Alexander Frieze.

Councillor Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council said: “The Alexander Frieze is a significant part of The Harris, and this conservation work ensures that it remains an important feature for visitors to enjoy for years to come. We are grateful to the Pilgrim Trust, Henry Moore Foundation and Friends of the Harris for their support in helping to preserve this remarkable piece of history as we continue to transform the Harris through the Harris Your Place project.”

Standing as one of the most striking features of The Harris, the Alexander Frieze is a large-scale sculptural work by Bertel Thorvaldsen, depicting Alexander the Great entering Babylon in 331 BC. The sheer size and intricate detail of the piece present a significant conservation challenge, requiring expert care to ensure its long-term preservation.

Now, with the support of the funders, conservation specialists Mareva Conservation have begun the process of assessing, stabilising, and conserving this historic masterpiece. This work forms part of Harris Your Place, a major project designed to protect and enhance The Harris for future generations.

Follow the Restoration Journey

Throughout the conservation process, The Harris will share behind-the-scenes updates, progress images, and video footage, offering a closer look at the delicate work required to preserve the frieze. Visitors and supporters will be able to watch as experts examine the surface, carefully clean, and secure areas at risk of deterioration.

The Harris will provide regular updates on the progress of the conservation project through its website and social media channels. For more information on the Alexander Frieze conservation project and the Harris Your Place project, visit Harris Your Place.

Harris Your Place is a £16million project to restore and reimagine the Harris. When the new Harris opens in 2025, inventive blended displays will give access to remarkable collections. New spaces have been designed to activate curiosity, creativity and reflection and offer library services in enriched settings, positioning the Harris as a uniquely blended venue, true to its original purpose.  The new Harris aims to attract a further 100,000 visitors a year on top of the existing 350,000 and will be a real visitor destination for Preston and Lancashire.

Harris Your Place is made possible with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund; Towns Fund; Preston City Council; Lancashire County Council; the Preston, South Ribble and Lancashire City Deal; DCMS; Arts Council England, public donations and a wide range of Trusts and Foundations.