"The Conservation of 18th Century Chinese Lacquer Panels in a 20th Century American Mansion" Ms. Melissa Carr

Science and Technology Group would like to invite you to a seminar by Ms. Melissa Carr from Masterwork Conservation.

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Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Time: 10:00 - 11:00
Venue: B503, Lab1
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Speaker: Ms. Mellissa Carr

Masterwork Conservation

Title: The Conservation of 18th Century Chinese Lacquer Panels in a 20th Century American Mansion

Abstract:

This presentation will describe a multi-year project to evaluate and treat Asian lacquer wall panels at The Elms (1901), an historic house museum in Newport, RI,  USA.   Three of the large (approximately 2.1 x 3.0 m) panels are 18th century Chinese lacquer while the fourth – also employing Asian lacquer but on a plywood substrate - was fabricated in Paris, c.1895 to complete the set. There are also three smaller overdoor panels (approx. 1.2 x 1.75 m) similarly decorated, and fabricated using a combination of Asian and European methods.

The results of the analytical testing conducted before treatment, including cross-section microscopy, X-radiography and Py-GC/MS, will be presented.  This will be followed by a description of the treatment, including securing lifting lacquer, removing a degraded upper layer of varnish, and the selective restoration of missing or damaged decoration.

Biography:

Melissa Carr trained as a chemist and cabinetmaker before completing her graduate work in the Furniture Conservation Training Program at the Smithsonian Institution’s Conservation Analytical Laboratory. She also attended the 2003 International Course on Conservation of Japanese Lacquer and the 2007 Evaluation Seminar for the International Course.   Ms. Carr specializes in the conservation of wooden objects and Asian lacquer from the 13^th to 20^th century.   Her private firm, Masterwork Conservation, provides conservation services to major museums and institutions, as well as individual collectors.  Masterwork offers consultation and treatment expertise in structural, surface and coating issues for furniture, frames, Asian lacquer, period rooms, and other wooden objects.