Pinturas em miniatura de marfim

: desafios de conservação e restauro

Abstract

The conservation and restoration of miniature paintings on ivory have not been thoroughly examined and only a limited number of publications have been published about the most appropriate techniques and materials for their treatment and preservation. This dissertation was based on two miniature portraits belonging to the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis (MNSR), dating from the 19th century. These miniatures showed degradation at the support with fractures and warping, and dissolution of the paint layers. In order to overcome the pathologies presented, and in light of the limited literature about them, it was imperative to conduct tests. For the purpose of testing methodologies and materials for treating fractures, filling gaps in the support and chromatic reintegration, tests were carried out with various adhesives, fillers and paints based on gum arabic. The selection of materials was based on a bibliographical survey of their characteristics, having evaluated their resistance to rupture, brightness, appearance and reversibility. The tests involved the preparation of mock-up samples of synthetic ivory – Elforyn® Super Tusk. It is concluded that, despite the positive results obtained in testing aqueous adhesives, non-aqueous adhesives are more suitable for bonding support fractures, respecting the physical and chemical characteristics of the ivory. Ultimately, a suitable packaging system was also suggested for these items, based on the MNSR miniatures collection.

Date of Award	17 Dec 2024
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Maria Aguiar (Supervisor) & Patrícia Delayti Telles (Co-Supervisor)