Conservation of extensively falling out hairs and feathers in a Rowland Ward’s 19th century diorama
Restauration d'un diorama monumental de Rowland Ward contenant un échantillon de la faune australienne, et daté d'environ 1892. Une attaque de parasites et de mauvaises conditions de conservation ont mené à une dégradation très importante des animaux. Une multitude de techniques ont été mises en place pour redonner à cet ensemble son allure d'origine. Le récit est complété par l'histoire de Rowland Ward. Les techniques développées pour stabiliser les fourrures et les plumages ont fait l'objet d'un article publié dans le Journal of Natural Science Collections :
Restoration of a monumental diorama by Rowland Ward containing a sample of the Australian fauna, dated circa 1892. An attack by parasites and poor conservation conditions led to severe degradation of the animals. A multitude of techniques were implemented to restore this diorama to its original condition. Rowland Ward's history completes the narrative.
The techniques developed to stabilize falling out furs and plumages have been published in the Journal of Natural Science Collections :
Castelain L. 2024. Conservation of extensively falling out hairs and feathers in a Rowland Ward’s 19th century diorama. JoNCS, 12 : 126-135.
Téléchargeable sur / Downloadable on https://www.natsca.org/article/2849
UV light as a diagnosis tool for conservation and restoration in natural history collections
The use of ultraviolet light for conservation and restoration in art collections is a common practice. In natural history collections, reaction to UV has been spotted in numerous animal groups; biofluorescence is widespread in the animal kingdom. Here it is the potential of UV light in terms of conservation and restoration of natural history specimens that is explored. UV-induced visible luminescence (UVL) of natural materials are characterized and complemented by actual examples of restored specimens under both regular and UV light. Carpet beetles attack can be spotted due to bright frass, but not other pests and mould in a conclusive way. Restored parts are identified due to glowing inconsistencies. Unusual treatments and dirt may also be distinguishable. It is therefore possible to inspect the integrity and authenticity of specimens, e.g. new acquisitions, and to adapt conservation treatment. As a help to diagnosis, it does not replace the judgement of a conservation specialist.
Journal of Natural Science Collections, Volume 13, pages 104 - 113
URL: https://www.natsca.org/article/2896
