Academic thesis
Marcella Steinbichler: | Investigation, conservation and restoration of a chinoise screen (2nd half 19th cent.) from the Esterházy collection | Back |
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Abstract: | This diploma thesis presents a scarlet folding screen from the Esterházy Collection which is dated to the 19th century. It consists of three panels covered with red dyed paper and decorated with chinoise motifs in gouache technique, each mounted in a bamboo frame. The initial condition of the folding screen was mainly characterized by its soiled surface, missing parts and gaping cracks in the paper, water marks and dents in the canvas. The original red color of the paper can only be seen in light-protected areas such as the verso of the panels or in areas covered by mounting plates. "Drebbel’s Scarlet" was identified both on the completely faded recto and on the still red verso, which represents the first evidence of this rare red dye in Austria. The presence of this highly light and moisture sensitive dye had to be taken into account when developing a conservation concept. Consequently, the introduction of moisture had to be reduced as far as possible during treatment. Conservation measures included stabilization of loose paper fragments as well as closing tears and areas of loss in the paper. Finally, a digital reconstruction was realized which shows the panels of the folding screen in their original scarlet color. |
Keywords: | folding screen, chinoiserie, Esterházy, red dye, Drebbel’s Scarlet, light sensitive,, digital retouche |
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