Art, like all life on Earth, is carbon-based, yet specifics on solving museum collection lifecycle challenges may be difficult to find in conservation journals. In this first paperback reprint of the classic first published in 1987, the former and current principal scientific officers of London's National Gallery update a survey on the chemical composition, properties, and analysis of the organic materials constituting museum artworks/objects. They discuss advances in red insect dyestuffs, synthetic varnish resins, and the use of antioxidants. Illustrations are of chemical structures, not objets d'art. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
'The Organic Chemistry of Museum Objects' makes available in a single volume, a survey of the chemical composition, properties and analysis of the whole range of organic materials incorporated into objects and artworks found in museum collections.
The authors cover the fundamental chemistry of the bulk materials such as wood, paper, natural fibres and skin products, as well as that of the relatively minor components incorporated as paint, media, varnishes, adhesives and dyes. This expanded second edition, now in paperback, follows the structure of the first, though it has been extensively updated. In addition to chapters on basic organic chemistry, analytical methods, analytical findings and fundamental aspects of deterioration, the subject matter is grouped as far as possible by broad chemical class - oils and fats, waxes, bitumens, carbohydrates, proteins, natural resins, dyestuffs and synthetic polymers.
This is an essential purchase for all practising and student conservators, restorers, museum scientists, curators and organic chemists.
* Available for the first time in paperback
* Detailed, comprehensive coverage of the subject area
* The only definitive guide to the survey of chemical composition
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