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I asked about the sand in display cases to
our object conservators. Here are two suggestions from them. Sunae “Perhaps they could wash and filter
it first and then let it dry so that only the larger grains are there and not
such fine stuff as might make dust.” “I think washing it is a good idea
too. The other thing to think about is trying to get larger grains or
course sand to start with since the larger the particles are the less likely
they are to get blown around and imbed in the textiles.” From: Textile
Conservators [mailto:TEXCONS@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Polly Willman I am working on an exhibit of swuimsuits
(1890's to 1970's). The older suits, of course, are made of
natural fibers (silk, cotton and wool knits); the modern suits of
synthetic fibers (nylon and spandex). They will be displayed
on ethaform forms and the dressed forms set into standard closed
musuem cases. No part of the costume will be in contact with the
case decks. The exhibit designer intends on covering the case decks with
sand, simulating a beach setting. Has anyone encountered this choice
of material before? Perhaps those of you working in natural history
museums? What were the issues/concerns you had to deal with in
respect to the artifacts? (I can only imagine the maintenance/cleaning
problems....) Is there a particular type of sand that should be
used? Should the sand be "processed" in some manner (e.g.,
sterilzed)? Or should sand be eliminated altogether? Any thoughts you have will be appreciated. Thanks. |