The preservation of antiquities

This handbook surveys the deterioration processes that affect archaeological materials in earth and air, and provides practical conservation methods for a wide range of inorganic and organic objects. The first part explains chemical and physical causes of decay for stone, ceramics, metals, glass, and organic remains; the second part gives step-by-step treatments and preventive measures including cleaning, impregnation, reduction, rust removal, and procedures tailored to limestone, marble, pottery, iron, bronze, coins, silver, wood, leather, textiles, papyrus, and amber. Practical laboratory apparatus, illustrative case examples, guidance on post-treatment care, and appendices on taking squeezes and on zapon are included for curators and collectors.