CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - The mythical roar in front of the Art Institute of Chicago returned Tuesday.
The two famed bronze lions that have guarded the steps of the museum along Michigan Avenue since 1893 were removed last month for much needed cleaning. Tuesday they were reinstalled in their familiar place.
Rachel Sabino, the Art Institute’s Director of Objects and Textiles Conservation, said last month the lions were to be cleaned with high pressure steam and then waxed.
"We've not done this to the lions in several decades. As you can imagine, doing this full-scale treatment where we have to remove them is quite an operation," Sabino said.
She also noted that the lions will still be green, but more lustrous.
This was the third occasion the historic sculptures were moved. Over a 100 years ago, they were removed while Michigan Avenue was widened, and more recently were displaced for a construction project.
WBBM NEWSRADIO reporter Mike Krauser contributed
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Related
