Frame made of cellulose acetate

We have been requested to treat a framed mirror by the French artist
Line Vautrin for a private client.

The frame is made from 'Talosel' which is a type of cellulose
acetate developed by the artist. There is little information on the
exact manufacturing process, and even less on the treatment of this
material in an object.

The frame is in a poor condition, severely warped and has cracks,
flaking surfaces and the distinct vinegar smell of degrading
cellulose acetate. The frame is to be displayed again in the clients
home without museum environmental controls.

Has anyone had experience or some information about possible methods
for treating a Line Vautrin mirror, or for treating cellulose
acetate objects in general, especially reshaping it so it can hold
the mirror.

Anne Cummins
Sydney Artefacts Conservation


                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 24:53
                   Distributed: Monday, May 30, 2011
                       Message Id: cdl-24-53-017
                                  ***