[NHCOLL-L:616] Re: Conservation of a mounted horse's head

[Kathryn Makos]

I cannot address the conservation issues, as that is not my profession, but I do want to caution you (if you have not already been aware) that many art plasters used in taxidermy mounts contain asbestiform minerals as binders.  You should get a sample analyzed to be sure (PLM, with dispersion staining as a minimum) and then take precautions appropriate to the condition of the plaster and your expected handling practices.  You might consider encapsulating the exposed plaster to avoid creaing dust (a safety trade off with the longer-term effects to the skin from the encapsulant).  And of course, working under local exhaust ventilation is always recommended, not just for the particulate control but for your conservation chemicals as well.  Once completed, the mount should have a note on its label and record as to the results of the material testing, for the future protection of any conservator, curator, or exhibits personnel who might need to work with it.  


Kathryn A. Makos, CIH
Industrial Hygienist
Office of Environmental Management and Safety
Smithsonian Institution
490 L'Enfant Plaza, Suite 4202
Washington, DC 20560-0932
(202) 287-3615
(202 287-3243-fax

>>> suev at austmus.gov.au 06/20/00 02:40AM >>>
Would anyone have experience with the conservation of split skin of a
mounted horse's head which is stretched over a plaster substrate. The
specimen had undergone an insect treatment with ethylene oxide
approximately 10 years ago, which has caused the skin to split in
several places (it is believed that the treatment was carried out under
elevated temperature). The remainder of the skin appears brittle. The
specimen needs to be treated for display purposes and any suggestions
for its conservation, including material and methods, would be greatly
appreciated. 

Sue Valis
Conservator
Australian Museum
6 College Street
Sydney NSW 2010
Australia

tel: +61 2 9320 6105
fax: +61 2 9320 6070