Konstantinos: You have looked at the white spots under the
microscope? Can you scrap a few off and see if they dissolve in water? Have a
pH? What kind of a box? Where was the box stored? Send us a photo? Mary
Mary W. Ballard
Senior Textiles Conservator,
Museum Conservation Institute, Smithsonian Institution
4210 Silver Hill Road, Suitland MD 20746 U.S.A.
tel: 301-238-1210 fax: 301-238-3709
email ballardm@xxxxxx
From: Textile
Conservators [mailto:TEXCONS@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of K
Hatziantoniou
Sent: Friday, February 20, 2009 6:36 AM
To: TEXCONS@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: Mould infestation on excavated ancient costumes
Importance: High
Dear all
I found extensive mould infestation (white spots covering the whole robes
including the linings) on costumes whihc are folded in layers and placed for
years in the same box. I have nevere seen these costumes before as this is the
first time I opened the box for survey of the textiles. The alarming incident
needs direct attention. Except from surface cleaning, can anyone suggest
imediate measurements and if possible materials that could help on this?
Storage conditions are stable but the collection has been moving around for
several years. Since excavation it is known to me of any treatment for possible
mould attack on these pieces from previous owners/conservators.
The costumes are all silk with metal threads.
Thank you for your time and help
Konstantinos Chatziantoniou
Museum of Islamic Art
Doha
Qatar
tel:+9746980254
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