Approach to the conservation of a mexican saddle and anquera |
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| Abstract: | AbstractThis paper deals with the approach to the conservation of a Spanish-style saddle and anquera (rump cover) from Mexico City and Puebla, Mexico, respectively. The objects were originally bought by an English explorer for a journey and are described in his book. The saddle and anquera are made from vegetable-tanned cowhide with punched and embroidered decoration and metal fittings. The condition, of the leather was assessed scientifically. It exhibits a number of conservation problems, notably surface deterioration and detachment of several sections due to acid attack. Previous conservation treatments have caused the leather to become overstuffed with dressing, resulting in a weakening of the substrate. The conservation ofthe saddle will involve four main stages: removal of excess dressing, stabilization of the leather, consolidation of the friable surface and repair of torn and broken areas. The suitability of various stabilizing agents, consolidants and methods of application was evaluated using mechanical tests alone and accelerated aging and mechanical tests. Naturall y aged and degraded leather was used as an experimental substrate. The results were used to formulate the approach to the conservation of the saddle and anquera. |
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