10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
The Repair Shop guest left 'speechless' by restoration of sentimental item only he can use
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info
The Repair Shop On The Road returned to our screens on Wednesday (18th June) with a fresh episode, taking the experts out of the barn and onto a new journey.
The show features the team travelling across the nation, meeting individuals who possess historical treasures and cherished items, and are seeking assistance in maintaining them in prime condition.
In this week's episode, Lucia Scalisi and Dominic Chinea made their way to Glasgow, later joined by fellow expert Will Kirk.
Lucia met Kaming, a member of Glasgow's Hakka Chinese community, who needed help restoring a Chinese unicorn head that required some tender loving care.
Constructed from bamboo and paper, the delicate mask holds a significant place in the community's celebrations, reports the Express.
(Image: BBC)
However, years of dancing had left the mask slightly worn, particularly its horn which needed special attention.
Kaming disclosed that he is the last person he knows capable of performing the traditional dance associated with the unicorn mask, and thus wanted it restored so he could hopefully pass on the dance to future generations before it disappears forever.
It's fair to say Lucia had a challenging task ahead of her, which quickly proved to be anything but simple. She found herself dealing with unfamiliar materials while striving to restore the mask to a standard that would allow it to be used for many more years.
The talented art restorer wowed with her skills, leaving Kaming amazed at the transformed mask.
"Are you looking forward to seeing it?" Lucia inquired before adding that both were "very excited" about the completed piece.
With the unveiling of the restored mask, Kaming was left speechless, uttering: "Just speechless! Speechless. It's amazing."
(Image: BBC)
He noted the stark change in the mask, saying: "It's a very big difference, especially the actual front here. Looking shiny."
Lucia commented on the mask, mentioning: "Everything about it is exquisitely beautiful. The symbolism on it is incredible.
"And, I think that it will do a very good job for your community centre for years to come. And now I think it's your turn to keep your side of the deal!"
After Lucia was treated to a performance at the community centre, she expressed her admiration by being "blown away" by the unicorn dance.
(Image: BBC)
"I actually don't know what to say, I am truly blown away to have that lovely unicorn do the unicorn dance. It was energetic, it was very powerful. It was wonderful!" she enthused.
Kaming expressed the importance of the mask's restoration, stating: "It means a lot to the Chinese community to have it fixed because it represents a whole lot to them."
Catch The Repair Shop On The Road on BBC One, Wednesdays at 8pm or stream episodes on iPlayer.
