Pollution

Human beings and artefacts share a common destiny – aging.

Combined with high temperatures throughout the year, the destructive forces of heat, sunlight, dust and pollutants can speed up the aging process of artefacts.

Da Bo Gong in storage.

Da Bo Gong or the Merchant God was one of many Chinese deities worshipped by Singapore’s Chinese immigrants in the 1800s.  Once sheltered under the roof of Fuk Tak Chi, one of Singapore’s oldest temples at Telok Ayer Street, this statue has deteriorated with prolonged exposure to moisture and sunlight. 

Over time, a layer of dust from incense, joss sticks and outdoor pollution, has covered the statue, giving it a dirty appearance.  The originally bright red robe behind the statue has changed into a dull red; and parts of the once vibrant yellow ribbon have been weakened by the unfavourable outdoors conditions. 

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