An ambitious, nearly three-year restoration and consolidation plan for Florence’s Accademia Gallery — “plagued” by myriad pandemic-related interruptions — is at last coming to fruition. The reopened gipsoteca (plaster cast gallery) and a new lighting system for Michelangelo’s David are two of the major renovations that were recently unveiled at the museum.

The gipsoteca’s collection comprises some 400 plaster casts — including busts, bas-reliefs and monumental sculptures, created mostly at the hands of noted 19th century sculptor Lorenzo Bartolini. The updated layout of this once under-visited section of the museum includes long shelves mounted with alabaster casts set against powder-blue walls, giving the space the feel of a delicately carved cameo.