Preservation Project

When entrusted with the delicate task of restoring a precious artifact, I embark on a journey to preserve its history and bring its beauty back to life. Recently, I had the privilege of working on a document from 1922, a cherished diploma belonging to a client’s grandfather.

Upon receiving the document, it was clear that time had taken its toll. Enclosed in an old frame with clear glass, a mat containing acid, and a cardboard backing filled with the same corrosive substance, the document was exceptionally fragile. I knew that swift action was necessary to safeguard its integrity.

With great care, I delicately removed the document from its aging confinement, revealing its faded ink and delicate structure. A closer examination revealed that it had adhered to the cardboard backing using horse glue, a practice common during that era. Such craftsmanship had its charm, but it posed a threat to the document’s longevity.

Determined to revive its glory, I set to work. The first step was to eliminate the harmful acid from the backing to prevent further deterioration. With precision and expertise, I skillfully treated the backing, ensuring the document’s protection for years to come.

The cardboard backing, weakened over time, needed to be replaced with a more durable and acid-free alternative. Carefully, I selected an acid-free paper that would serve as a stable foundation for the document, guaranteeing its preservation for future generations.

The restoration process demanded an artistic touch, and to conceal the damage while enhancing the writing’s legibility, I chose an acid-free black mat. Its elegance not only added a touch of sophistication to the diploma but also created a striking contrast, making the writing stand out with renewed clarity.

One of the challenges I faced was the presence of blank lines and fading ink, making it difficult to read the valuable content. As an experienced restorer, I took on this task with dedication, using my expertise to bring the document back to life. The once-diminished writing now emerged with renewed prominence, allowing the reader to connect with the past and relive the memories inscribed upon it.

Upon completion of the restoration, I presented the revitalized diploma to the client. Witnessing the joy and gratitude in her eyes was truly rewarding. Preserving her grandfather’s legacy for posterity was not only a duty but a passion that fuels my commitment to the art of restoration.

As a restorer, my capabilities extend beyond the technical aspects of the craft. With each project, I embark on a journey to honor the stories locked within artifacts, weaving together the threads of the past with meticulous care and reverence. I take pride in my ability to breathe life into aged relics, ensuring that the essence of history remains alive and cherished for generations to come.