Conservation Flashcards
LIGHT
Lux levels for paintings and wooden sculptures
Moderate sensitivity- 150 to 200 lux
LIGHT
Lux level for works on paper, textiles, some plastic items and mixed media.
High sensitivity- 50 lux
LIGHT
Lux level for metal, marble, glass or stone sculptures and ceramics.
Low sensitivity, ok in sunlight, 800+ lux.
How long should a work be shown and stored?
On a ratio of 1:3,
E.g. 1 Month shown = 3 months rested in storage
What can galleries do to control pests?
Fumigation, vacuuming, keeping storage areas clean, setting traps and checking works regularly.
If evidence of pest activity is found, textiles can be frozen to eradicate any surviving pests.
How are works on paper stored?
Hung on metal racks or in solander boxes. Acid free mounts and wrapped in acid free tissue. Always handled wearing gloves to protect from acids on the hands.
What temperature range should a gallery stay within?
18-22 degrees Celsius. (20+or-2)
What humidity range should galleries maintain?
45 - 55% relative humidity
What effects can high humidity have on organic materials?
Object swells, mould growth, staining, distortion.
What effect can low humidity have on organic materials?
Objects become brittle and dry, shrinkage.
What effects can high humidity have on inorganic materials?
Objects may swell and melt.
What effects can low humidity have on inorganic materials?
Shrinkage and distortion.
