Surface Modification Issues in Art

摘要

Surface modification of art and patrimonial objects may be considered from very various viewpoints: archaeology, history of techniques, restoration, and conservation. The use of conventional or particular surface techniques has to be adapted to the specificity of that object: possible non-destructive characterization, non-invasive restoration, and prevention of future degradation. This paper will first define the intervention field of the laboratory for such issues: surface assessment, techniques of restoration, and conservation recommendations. It will point out the status of the patrimonial object and the authorized range of each scientific investigation. A methodological analysis of various methods for surface characterization and surface treatments will be proposed. The argumentation will be illustrated by a limited number of demonstrative examples: surface assessment of a prestigious museum bronze object, development of a program for the restoration and conservation of silver museum goods, and research in progress for understanding the role of surface on the quality of musical instruments.