| Egyptian Journal of Archeological and Restoration Studies

Authors:
Abdel-Aal ¹ , O. ¹ (*), Abdel-Ghani, M. ² , Abd El-Monem, H. <sup>1

1</sup> Conservation dept., Museum of Islamic Arts, Cairo, Egypt.
² Conservation dept., Faculty of Archaeology, Cairo Univ., Giza, Egypt

Abstract:
This paper presents a case study of the conservation of Persian lacquer paintings at the Museum of Islamic Art, Cairo, addressing the limited research on this topic. A microbiological study was conducted to identify the fungi responsible for the degradation of the painting. Two media were used to isolate and cultivate present fungi. Eight fungi were isolated Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus candidus, Cla-dosporium cladosporioides, Cladosporium herbarum, Penicilium frequetans. Visual inspection revealed a deteriorated varnish surface, missing paint layers, and non-original additions. UV radiation imaging and Reflectance Transmission Imaging (RTI) aided in identifying missing areas and assessing varnish deterioration. The conservation-restoration process involved cleaning, frame removal, label removal, varnish removal, paint consolidation, and retouching. Sustainable storage practices, utilizing acid-free and eco-friendly materials, were implemented. The study provides valuable insights into the conservation challenges of Persian lacquer paintings, offering a detailed examination of biodeterioration, varnish issues, and preservation consid-erations.

Keywords:
Persian lacquer Papier mâché Shellac Conservation Lacquer albums Deterioration Fungi

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