Consolidation

Consolidation is a form of a stabilizing a vulnerable element. It typically takes place on the surface versus a structural repair which joins two separate elements. Insect-damaged wooden substrates can be consolidated internally. The process involves feeding adhesive into gaps or behind lifting paint, gilding, or other decoration. The types of adhesives used need to be stable polymers, deliverable in a solvent that does not adversely affect the decoration, and be potentially removable in the future.

Consolidating adhesives can be delivered by brush, syringe, or as an overall mist.

Learning about different nebulizers and instruments for delivering mist consolidation during a workshop with paper conservator, Julie Ream.

Consolidants tested included aquazol, gelatin, and B-72. Water on its own was also tested for localized humidification purposes.

Delivering consolidant to a test sample of pastel on papyrus.

Working under the microscope helped target delivery of the mist and monitor changes in saturation.

Large wallpaper fragment that was lined overall with heavy weight Japanese paper at Allyson McDermott studio.

The uncovered paint was severely flaking and cupping.

I consolidated the paint with a dilute solution of animal glue, first while the paper was on the examination table, and then again as it was stretch dried on a kari bari board.

Before consolidating flaking black paint on cork body of decoy

Charles “Shang” Wheeler, Black Duck Decoy, unknown date. Cork, wood, paint, glass, metal and leather, 6 3/8 x 7 3/8 x 17 ¾ in. Collection of Shelburne Museum, gift of Mrs. Howard Newton. 1969-77.

After treatment (consolidation of black paint on cork body)

Charles “Shang” Wheeler, Black Duck Decoy, unknown date. Cork, wood, paint, glass, metal and leather, 6 3/8 x 7 3/8 x 17 ¾ in. Collection of Shelburne Museum, gift of Mrs. Howard Newton. 1969-77.

Thumbnails of report on consolidation testing for painted cork substrate. Different substrates can alter which consolidating adhesives are effective and appropriate for treatment.

Before treatment

Strater & Sohier, Stick-up Folding Tin Shorebird Decoy, 1874-1900. Tin and paint, 6 ½ x 2 ½ x 9 in. Collection of Shelburne Museum, museum purchase, acquired from Richard H. Moeller, 1956. 1956-707.73.1.

Detail of lifting paint before treatment on metal shorebird decoy

Detail of same area on metal shorebird decoy after paint consolidation

After treatment

Strater & Sohier, Stick-up Folding Tin Shorebird Decoy, 1874-1900. Tin and paint, 6 ½ x 2 ½ x 9 in. Collection of Shelburne Museum, museum purchase, acquired from Richard H. Moeller, 1956. 1956-707.73.1.

Thumbnails of treatment report for consolidation of paint on metal shorebird.