Up Close and Personal with Cultural Heritage
Anjo Weichbrodt has been working as a restorer and conservator at the Bourbaki Panorama since early 2026. As part of the current image-cleaning process, he moves centimetre by centimetre along the enormous canvas. Learn how Anjo Weichbrodt offers fascinating insights into the unique inner workings of this European cultural landmark.
A Complex Piece of Art
Anjo Weichbrodt is very familiar with delicate objects: His work has focused in particular on the conservation of archaeological artifacts and decorative surfaces such as mosaics and murals. What particularly inspires the young restorer about his work on the Bourbaki Panorama is its diversity and uniqueness: “The panorama is a complex piece of art. Its mounting, form, materials, and sheer size require tailor-made solutions and can only be mastered through teamwork and specialized knowledge. That’s what I enjoy.”
Preserving Knowledge
Over the next two years, Anjo Weichbrodt will gradually acquire the comprehensive expertise of Chief Restorer Christian Marty. This transfer of knowledge ensures the long-term preservation of restoration know-how and, with it, the future of the panorama. While working, Weichbrodt is sometimes within view of visitors. He also enjoys interacting with the public: “Contact with the public plays an important part of public outreach. I appreciate the public’s interest. The preservation of this cultural monument should serve that interest.” His professional career has taken this multilingual specialist from Switzerland to Paris, Rome, and Los Angeles. The advancement of his profession is particularly close to Anjo Weichbrodt’s heart: Since 2020, he has served as co-president of the Swiss Association for Conservation and Restoration (SKR).
Preserving Values
By caring for the artwork, Anjo Weichbrodt also helps keep the message of the Bourbaki Panorama alive for future generations: “The panoramic painting brings people together and inspires both children and adults alike. In this way, it offers a unique way to raise awareness of the suffering of war and humanitarian efforts, as well as history and art. That’s very important to me!” Visitors to the Bourbaki Panorama can sense this passion for the impressive panoramic painting. Both in front of and behind the scenes, Anjo Weichbrodt and his colleagues are dedicated with all their hearts to ensuring that future generations can experience the immense appeal of this unique cultural heritage.”
