Automaton Ball Balancer Click for Video
The restoration was particularly delicate. The gesso had separated into plates with raised edges and we wanted to keep the original paint. So Maria softened the gesso and pressed it flat. She then filled the cracks and painted just the filler. The end result was quite pleasing.
The music played is Je Veux Vivre from Romeo and Juliet by Gounod.
Here is Netrebko doing it
and if you want to sing along in English the lyrics are:
Ah!
I want to live
In this dream that intoxicates me
Again this day!
Sweet flame,
I keep you in my soul
Like a treasure!