J.CAC VOLUME 34 (2009)
A Passage in the Life of a Palampore: Conservation
An early 18th century, gilded Indian cotton palampore (large bed curtain or cover) required a complex treatment so that it could be displayed safely. A previous restoration consisted of a number of patches adhered to the reverse, one of which was visible on the front in a narrow diagonal strip of missing original material. Treatment included removal of previous repairs such as patch removal, starch paste residue reduction, and localized stain reduction, humidification, and physical stabilization. Heavy cotton patches adhered to the back with starch paste imposed stresses and tears to surrounding areas. Humidification made patch removal relatively straightforward, however a residue remained. A methyl cellulose poultice was successful in removing the bulk of the residue, but left the paste embedded in the yarns. Complete removal of the paste was not undertaken during this treatment because it was felt it would put the gilding at risk. New backing fabric, which would be visible in the area of loss, was custom dyed to provide a good colour match using Cibacron F fibre reactive dyes. The palampore was supported by stitching the top third to the custom dyed fabric, as well as smaller patches secured to a number of other weaknesses. Display on an angled panel provided additional support while on exhibit.
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