Rust on polychrome sculpture

A local university has contacted me looking for advice on a
sculpture they own.  The artist is Callooh-Callay.  It is a large
iron sculpture painted orange/red which has been on outdoor display
for many years. There are also smaller areas of paint loss and rust
scattered overall, which need some type of attention. Unfortunately,
the top piece acted like a catchment tray for water.  Being quite
high up, no one was aware of the *extensive* rust (large layers are
now spalling off) that was occurring, until the Physical Plant
decided they wanted to move the piece and placed it on its side in
another location.  On the preventive side, I would have suggested
that they drill holes in the top level to let water out, and perhaps
tilt the sculpture slightly so that it runs to the one side;
however, this is way beyond that. I have not dealt with painted,
rusted outdoor sculptures and extensive delamination.  I would like
some expert help so I can help them. I have photos which I can
e-mail.


                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 17:73
                   Distributed: Tuesday, June 8, 2004
                       Message Id: cdl-17-73-010
                                  ***