Kristel Van den Boom has successfully restored the piano-shaped grave of renowned pianist René Vandeplas in Leuven, replacing approximately 400 mosaic tiles despite facing personal health challenges, reports 24brussels.
The restoration, recently highlighted by VRT News, attracted significant local interest, with Kristel sharing before-and-after photos on the Facebook page Goed nieuws in Leuven (Good News from Leuven). The project received widespread praise from the community, showcasing a commitment to preserving historical heritage.
Alderman Bieke Verlinden expressed her admiration for Kristel’s dedication in a letter, stating, “I am deeply impressed by all you have accomplished, despite your own illness and rehabilitation. The photos show not only the beautiful result, but also the heartfelt story behind it. You have not only saved a piece of heritage and memory, but also sparked a wave of solidarity and appreciation.”
Background on René Vandeplas and the Restoration Effort
René Vandeplas, a celebrated pianist in Leuven, passed away in 1965. Kristel Van den Boom first encountered his grave as a child during All Saints’ Day visits and was drawn to its distinctive piano shape. Over the years, the gravestone deteriorated significantly.
After unsuccessful attempts to locate Vandeplas’s relatives, Kristel obtained official approval to restore the grave independently. She initiated the process by working on the bluestone base but was forced to halt her efforts due to a serious illness.
Kristel returned to the project two months ago, undertaking extensive cleaning, mosaic repairs, and moss removal to restore the gravestone’s design. “It turned out that about 400 mosaic tiles were missing, so I went by bus or bike to tile companies that could help me. A tile company in Bierbeek was willing to provide the tiles for free; the owners only wanted some advertising in return,” Kristel explained.
Despite experiencing numbness in her fingers due to medical issues, Kristel persevered through the physical challenges involved in the restoration. “I often had to stop glueing the tiles and massage my fingers before I could continue,” she said, illustrating her determination to see the project through to completion.
