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Art and Materials Conservation
State University of New York College at Buffalo - Buffalo State College
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Full-Text Articles in Art and Design
A Lifetime Of Stress: Analysis And Treatment Of An Inlaid Chinese Box, Katherine Mcfarlin
A Lifetime Of Stress: Analysis And Treatment Of An Inlaid Chinese Box, Katherine Mcfarlin
Art Conservation Master's Projects
Inlaid wooden objects are complex and intricate mixed media assemblages that can provide significant challenges to the conservator, as the properties of the individual materials can conflict and complicate treatment options. For example, traditional inlay materials such as ivory and mother-of-pearl are particularly susceptible to shifts in moisture and acidity, and the hygroscopic nature of historic proteinaceous adhesives can exacerbate dimensional changes in the surrounding wood. This paper describes the research and subsequent treatment to stabilize and restore a Qing dynasty wooden tabletop chest inlaid with ivory, mother-of-pearl, and various siliceous minerals. A combination of adhesive failure along multiple joints …