Academic thesis

Christina K. Widmann: Wickerwork & conservation - how to handle wicker chairs and woven seat covers made from plant fibers Back
Language: Original   -   Translation
Overview:  
Abstract: This thesis is dedicated to the object group of wicker chairs and woven seat coverings made from plant fibers. It addresses key questions regarding manufacturing techniques, damage patterns, and conservation solutions. This theoretical approach is grounded in extensive research, damage documentation, and personal experiments. The examination of manufacturing techniques and materials emphasizes the importance of understanding various weaving methods and assembly techniques. Through the analysis of five selected objects and restoration reports, the typical damage phenomena within this object group and their causes were investigated. This knowledge can assist in damage prevention and preventive conservation. The theoretical exploration of publications and restoration reports revealed a multitude of options for securing and supplementing woven structures. Personal experiments demonstrated, among other things, that soft supplementary materials are advantageous when dealing with brittle rattan strip weavings. The work highlights that aged plant fibers, despite their apparent stability, often exhibit underestimated fragility. The insights gained contribute to a better understanding of this object group and provide further insights into preserving woven structures.

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Keywords: cane-chair, wicker furniture, Thonet, coiling, twining, plaiting, Rattan
Details:
  • academic institution: Akademie der bildenden Künste Wien
  • kind of theses:  Diplomarbeit
  • main Tutor:  Univ.Prof. Dr. Carolin Bohlmann
  • assistant Tutor:  Dipl. Kons.-Rest. (FH) Heike Winkelbauer
  • date:  2023
  • Language:  German
  • pages:  197
  • pictures:  253
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