Welcome to the May issue of the Journal of the American Institute for Conservation. In this edition, we delve into a diverse array of topics that highlight the multifaceted nature of conservation and its intersection with broader societal concerns. From the emotional resonance of objects to the practical challenges of material consolidation and risk assessment, our featured articles offer valuable insights into the evolving fields of conservation practice and heritage science.
In her thought-provoking article, Rachel Rivenc invites us to contemplate the profound connection between objects, memory, and restorative justice. Rivenc eloquently argues that objects are not mere artifacts, but carriers of emotional significance, shaping collective memory and identity. Drawing on the principles of Restorative Justice, the author advocates for a deeper engagement with the emotional power of material culture in conservation practice. Rivenc's compelling narrative challenges us to reconsider the role of conservation in healing collective wounds and fostering societal reconciliation. This article offers a new perspective on the impact of conservation on restorative practices and highlights the importance of involving communities in conservation and preservation activities to establish a broader and more current approach to conservation matters.
In the second article, Nina Owczarek and colleagues present a meticulous investigation into the consolidation of ancient Egyptian limestone artifacts, shedding light on the complex challenges faced by conservators when dealing with these types of cultural heritage objects. The authors conducted a series of microscopic imaging and spectroscopy measurements to study the mineralogy and structure of the stone. Moreover, through rigorous testing and analysis, the authors evaluate various consolidation materials to strengthen and stabilize deteriorating stone elements. Their research not only contributes to the preservation of invaluable cultural heritage but also underscores the importance of informed decision-making in conservation treatment, specifically in the context of reinstallation of monumental architectural elements in the renovated Egyptian galleries at the Penn Museum.
Adrienne Gendron's study addresses an important health concern for collections care specialists: the risk of lead exposure from handling ceramics containing deteriorated glazes. Through empirical tests and practical recommendations, Gendron highlights the importance of adopting precautionary measures to minimize lead transfer and ensure the safety of collections care staff. The results of the study confirmed that workers may experience various levels of lead exposure based on the nature and type of object handled. The author indicates that XRF analysis could be used to identify the presence of lead, but recognizes that this technique is not always available in every cultural institution. As an alternative, the author recommends the use of Plumbtesmo test strips, which are a low cost and accessible method of identifying lead in collections. Some recommendations include minimizing handling, glove changes, cleaning, and conducting regular blood tests to individuals handling lead objects to monitor exposure levels.
Eric M. Breitung and collaborators offer a comprehensive comparison of two widely used accelerated aging protocols, namely Oddy test and photographic acitivity test (PAT). The authors shed light on their strengths and limitations in predicting material compatibility with cultural heritage objects. By evaluating thirty-five materials through the Oddy test and PAT, the authors reveal nuances in their response to reactive species, emphasizing the need for tailored testing protocols. The authors highlight the fact that these two tests were designed for different purposes, and therefore their comparison becomes a challenging task.
The authors discuss the tendency to equate results from the Oddy and PAT tests and apply them universally across all collection types resulting in a significant challenge for the conservation field. They also indicate that there is a genuine desire for a broader range of tests to address specific questions regarding material safety. However, there is currently not a single test capable of fulfilling these diverse needs, nor can any individual test offer universal protection for all collection types. The results from this article indicate that existing tests can be adapted and applied in novel contexts, providing valuable insights into the evolving field of preventive conservation science.
In our book reviews section, Jen Munch and Noémie Étienne offer insightful critiques of recent publications that delve into the rich tapestry of conservation history and practice. From Rosa Lowinger's experiences in Dwell Time to Matthew Hayes’ examination of creation during the Renaissance and nineteenth-century art conservation, these reviews provide valuable perspectives on the evolving discourse within the field.
As we navigate the complexities of conservation in an ever-changing world, the articles featured in this issue serve as examples of scholarship and reflection. We hope that they inspire further dialogue and innovation in the pursuit of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.