The Old North Church, a historic landmark nestled in Boston’s North End, is on the cusp of revealing a hidden treasure – a host of angelic figures, concealed beneath layers of paint for over a century. These 20 angels, originally painted around 1730, are gradually being brought back to light by meticulous restoration efforts, just in time for the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s legendary midnight ride. Their rediscovery marks a significant moment in the church’s history, offering a glimpse into its vibrant past and adding another layer of depth to its already rich narrative.
The angels, characterized by their round, almost cherubic faces and delicate wings, were a prominent feature of the church’s interior during the early 18th century. They adorned the walls, adding a splash of color and artistic flair to the otherwise austere surroundings. However, in 1912, for reasons that remain shrouded in mystery, these celestial beings were covered by thick coats of white paint, effectively erasing them from the church’s visual landscape. This dramatic shift in décor obscured a significant piece of the church’s heritage, leaving generations unaware of the artistic treasures hidden beneath the plain white surface.
The restoration project, spearheaded by Gianfranco Pocobene, involves painstakingly chipping away at the layers of paint to uncover the angels beneath. Pocobene, perched atop scaffolding, meticulously works to unveil these historic figures, breathing new life into the church’s interior. The process began with the unveiling of eight angels in early December, with another eight slated for rediscovery in the spring. This phased approach allows for careful restoration and preservation of the delicate artwork. The rediscovery of these long-hidden angels has been described as a revelation, offering a tangible connection to the church’s colonial past.
The Old North Church, famously linked to Paul Revere’s midnight ride, is a cornerstone of American history. Revere, a member of the church and a bell-ringer in his youth, used the church steeple as a signal point in his historic ride to warn of the British army’s approach. The two lanterns hung from the steeple that night, immortalized in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s poem “Paul Revere’s Ride,” cemented the church’s place in the nation’s collective memory. As the 250th anniversary of this pivotal event approaches, the church aims to broaden its narrative, emphasizing its rich history beyond its association with Revere.
The church’s history is more complex than its association with liberty. While it served as a beacon of freedom, it also had ties to the darker side of American history. Many of its early congregants profited from the slave trade, a stark reminder of the contradictions inherent in the nation’s founding. Built in 1723 to accommodate Boston’s burgeoning Anglican community, the church’s construction predates the events of the American Revolution. The angels, commissioned from congregation member John Gibbs, were part of the original décor, as evidenced by a surviving contract. A 2017 paint study confirmed their existence but not their condition, leaving their rediscovery a thrilling moment for historians and art conservators alike.
The restoration process, led by painting conservator Corrine Long, has been a challenging undertaking. Seven layers of paint obscured the angels, requiring a delicate and painstaking approach to their removal. A solvent gel was used to soften the paint layers, followed by careful scraping with plastic tools. Cotton swabs were employed for cleaning, and retouching was done to address any damage. Each angel, individually painted by John Gibbs, possesses unique characteristics and poses, creating a rhythmic pattern across the church walls. The restoration team’s dedication has not only unveiled these hidden treasures but also brought renewed appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of the original painter. The unveiling of the angels represents a return to the church’s original vision, restoring a piece of its history that was almost lost to time. The vibrant colors and artistic detail, once hidden beneath layers of white paint, now contribute to a richer, more nuanced understanding of the church’s past and its significance in American history. The restoration, timed with the 250th anniversary of Revere’s ride, serves as a powerful reminder of the church’s enduring legacy and its ongoing relevance in the present day.
