Academic thesis

Kristina Martin: back

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Abstract: This crown for the death dates from the 18th century and consists of a wooden ring holding different
decorative elements. As a result of its location in a humid tomb and storage under inadequate
conditions the object was seriously deteriorated and not recognizable as a crown‐like item. Further
complications arose during the conservation work as a result of the material combination such as
metal, wood, waxed paper, glass and textiles.
The conservation treatment contained following steps: separation, cleaning, scientific examination,
consolidation, adhesive work, presentation and housing.
Separation and cleaning could be applied to the whole object regardless of the different materials.
For further scientific investigation of materials and techniques stereomicroscope, X‐ray and the
scanning electron microscope examinations were performed.
The consolidation and application of adhesive materials were practiced with regard to the special
requirements of the various materials and decorative elements. The primary objective during the
treatment was to improve stability whereas the aesthetical aspect was considered secondarily. When
a sufficient stability was achieved the fragments could be individually presented. All of the pieces
were arranged on a plane subdivided into three levels. The second, central level holds the fragments
of the former ring of the crown, arranged circularly in a lose fashion. All the blossom‐like decorative
elements whose original fastenings could not be determined were placed on the third level. The
other materials and fragmented elements were arranged on the plane level around the two
upstanding floors. They are united either in material or decorative groups because their original
purpose and shape is lost.
The observer is now enabled to visualize a crown which contains a wide range of different materials
and a multitude of decorative elements. The presentational arrangement is altogether reversible and
also designed as an adequate housing and transportation bin.

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Details:
  • academic institution: FH Erfurt
  • kind of theses:  Diplomarbeit
  • date:  2003

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