Projects
A Master Print
Preservation of an engraving of Saint Eustace, Durer 1513, damaged by acidity, which had caused uneven, disfiguring discolouration.
The treatment involved the stabilization of the acidic paper. This involved the removal of the acidic board, tapes and adhesive.
Humidification using distilled water via ultrasonic vapour and Gore-Tex membrane. Float washing on a protective screen with purified buffered water which removed water soluble acidic discolouration. The print was de-acidified with an appropriate alkaline solution of Calcium Hydroxide.This solution neutralizes existing acidity and deposits an alkaline reserve throughout the paper, which increases permanence. Following aqueous treatment the print was repaired with wheat starch paste and Japanese tissues and infilling looses were required. The treatment has increased the pH level of the paper support. This is an important requirement for the preservation of paper artefacts. Acidic mounting material and old adhesives have been removed enabling the papers internal characteristics/watermarks etc to be appreciated and documented.