services

conservation

Paper Conservation

Materials treated in the paper conservation laboratory include prints and drawings and other works of art on paper as well as archival materials, photographs, maps, architectural drawings, parchment artifacts, globes, and wallpaper. The Center's paper conservation staff includes conservators with degrees from the leading graduate art conservation programs.

Different levels of conservation treatment are available. Before beginning treatment, a conservator will examine the object using magnification and other specialized examination techniques, if appropriate, and will test the solubility of all components if any treatment involving water or other solvents is contemplated. The conservator then provides a written proposal, with recommended treatment and a cost estimate. Often the conservator will confer with the client to explain options and discuss their implications.  The choice of treatment will depend on several factors, including the condition of the artifact, its future use, its aesthetic or historic content, the predicted outcome of the treatment, and, of course, the client's budget.

Treatment does not commence until the client authorizes the proposal. Photographs are taken before, occasionally during, and after treatment. Copies of the photographs are given to the client along with a full written report.

Common treatments for flat paper objects include: surface cleaning to reduce superficial dirt; washing to reduce acidity, deterioration products, and stains; alkalization to combat future degradation; mending tears; reinforcing brittle paper by backing with Japanese paper, filling areas of paper loss, consolidation of flaking or unstable media, and removal of mold.

In some cases removal of old repairs made with damaging materials or adhesives is necessary. If an object is lined or backed with an unstable or inappropriate material, removal and possibly replacement of the backing may be required. Cosmetic treatments for works with aesthetic value may include stain reduction, inpainting areas of image loss, and filling losses with matching paper. These non-essential treatments are performed at the discretion of the client. Various rehousing options are available, including polyester film encapsulation, matting, and reframing in existing frames. NEDCC does not provide frames.

Since the cost of treatment depends on the treatment required, conservators must examine an object before an estimate of treatment costs can be given. We encourage prospective clients to bring their objects to NEDCC. There is no charge for a brief consultation with a conservator. If it is not possible to come in person, objects can be sent. Packing and shipping instructions are available.

For additional information, contact Walter Newman, Director of Paper Conservation, (978) 470-1010, waltern@nedcc.org.