We’ve all seen the effect of unexpected and uncontrolled encounters between paper and moisture. Whet

We’ve all seen the effect of unexpected and uncontrolled encounters between paper and moisture. Whether it’s a spilled drink, getting caught in a downpour without an umbrella, or dropping your favorite book into the bath, moisture can alter paper-based objects by depositing stains, creasing while in a wet vulnerable state, or cockling while drying.The absorbency of paper allows water to permeate and fill the tiny spaces within the network of cellulose fibers that constitute a sheet. Water can transport unwanted materials with it, carrying them inside or among the surface fibers of paper where they become trapped upon drying. But just as paper absorbs unwanted materials, there is also the possibility for it to release them again. A trained paper conservator can utilize techniques to re-introduce moisture to the paper, either locally or by immersing the entire object in a bath of water. Controlled treatments enable water to interact with impurities, acidic products, or adhesive residues inside and on the surface of the paper, and can transport degradative materials out and away from the fibers. Harbour Scene, a multi-color lithograph ca. 1894 by Paul Signac, was recently washed in preparation for our upcoming exhibition on European works on paper. 13 hinge carriers, of three different materials and representing a multitude of previous hinging campaigns, were strewn along the perimeter of the verso. Contrasting tension between the varying hinges and the paper caused significant creases and cockling, and the adhesives had caused discolorations in the paper as they aged. All four corners of the object were affected as well as the center of the right edge. Because the image covers the entire sheet, the result is visually disruptive.L: Before treatment detail of upper right corner. R: After treatment detail of upper right corner.Tests revealed this lithograph was printed on highly absorbent paper, would likely release unwanted products favorably, and the adhesives were water soluble while the color media remained stable upon exposure to water.  The expected outcome of treatment was discussed with the curator before several full immersion washes dissolved and flushed out adhesive residues and much of the discolored degradation products in the paper.  Upon removal from our drying stack the creases and cockling are largely reduced.  Brittleness in the paper was decreased with strength and flexibility restored to the paper fibers. The appearance of the colors is dramatically improved.Come see the fantastic result first hand along with many other amazing artworks in Five Centuries of European Works on Paper, running June 21 to October 13.Posted by Craig KamrathLead Images: [TOP] Before treatment photos of rector and verso, and [BOTTOM] after treatment photoso of recto and verso -- source link
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