Brussels’ Fine Arts Museum moves paintings due to leaks

The Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Brussels has removed a number of paintings from its Old Masters wing after a leak was discovered in the roof. At fault are the cupolas that provide the exhibition rooms with natural light, but which are no longer reliably watertight.

A technical team from the federal buildings agency is investigating whether repairs can be made. A preliminary inspection, however, suggested that some of the fittings will have to be replaced.

“These are old metal skylights; water can easily leak in,” said Johan Vanderborght of the buildings agency. “We're looking to see if repairs can be carried out, but we're assuming that they will have to be replaced in time.” The roof of the building, which is still lined with zinc, will also be inspected, he said.

The threat of water damage also led to the museum closing temporarily in 2013, when the prestigious – and ultimately extremely successful – exhibition devoted to Rogier van der Weyden had to end prematurely.

Photo: put/Het Nieuwsblad