Stabilising cracks in bark paintings

I have been asked by a small museum about the possibility of
stabilising two disjointed cracks in a bark painting. The cracks run
from the top and bottom edges towards the centre. There is a small
amount of flex along the cracks. The position of the cracks prevents
the bark painting from sitting safely in an aluminium H-frame. It
has been suggested to the owner that a fabric or Japanese tissue
backing could be adhered to the rear of the bark painting with an
acrylic adhesive. This would be applied only where the cracks are
visible on the rear surface. The owner is keen to have the bark
painting in a displayable condition. Has anyone had any experience
with this type of repair who may be able to comment on its long term
stability or suggest an alternative treatment?

Kate Stanway
Director
Kate Stanway Conservation Pty Ltd
ABN 18-150-209 411
+61 408 320 394


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 26:9
                  Distributed: Saturday, July 21, 2012
                        Message Id: cdl-26-9-011
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