J.CAC VOLUME 41 (2016)
Shredded Cedar Bark: A Survey of Past Treatments
A survey of past treatments for shredded cedar bark was carried out on sixteen objects: two masks from the U’mista Cultural Centre and fourteen similar objects at the Canadian Museum of History (CMH), which had been assessed or treated by the CMH or the Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) nearly 30 years ago. The objects were examined and evaluated with regard to cedar bark condition, appearance, pH and iron content. Treatments fell into four groups: 1) adhesive consolidation; 2) localized paper supports with adhesives; 3) localized thread wrappings, with or without adhesives; and 4) no treatment, sometimes coupled with a support. Parylene (poly-para-xylylenes) coating was also investigated as CCI carried out tests on cedar bark samples several years ago. Each treatment strategy had some benefits and drawbacks. Iron content was identified as an important factor in condition. A literature review on shredded cedar bark was also conducted to elucidate its properties, processing and conservation.
Download: JCAC41 Kata & Dignard