Professional paper
https://doi.org/10.17018/portal.2023.12
On the possibilities of reconstruction within conservation and restoration interventions using metal heritage objects as examples
Maja Velicogna Novoselac
Valentina Ljubić Tobisch
Abstract
Over time, heritage objects often change their institutional role and the meaning attributed to them, and conservation and restoration can change the material used in their construction. Therefore, the relationship between ethical principles and changes in the material and social aspects of objects is crucial when deciding on the necessary conservation and restoration measures. Contemporary conservation and restoration practice recommends preventive conservation which aims to improve the condition of a collection and reduce negative changes by reacting to the causes of deterioration, rather than to their consequences. The word reconstruction is generally defined as the rebuilding or restoration of something after it has been damaged or destroyed. It also denotes the process of establishing and depicting the former appearance, state or sequence of events in relation to something that existed or happened in the past. During this process, we rely on preserved and available information or repeat what has been preserved. Reconstruction as part of conservation and restoration is a very complex and sensitive topic, and it can be a long-term process that develops during conservation. A decision has to be made for each object as to whether the intervention will be limited to museum conservation, or whether it will include partial or complete reconstruction of missing parts or the creation of new structural joints. The biggest challenge is assessing the circumstances and conditions the object will be kept in when returned, and finding the right solution or compromise in agreement with owners, curators, conservators and other experts. The result of the process, in which we weigh and evaluate various possibilities, must not in any way damage the originality of the object itself. It is very important that the measures implemented satisfy the interests of all involved parties and prevent inadequate renovation using unsuitable techniques and machines. Restoration and conservation of metal objects remains one of the most demanding, and often neglected, disciplines in the restoration profession. In addition to a high level of historical, contemporary, technical and craft skills – and a good knowledge of metals, metal alloys and coatings and their accompanying materials, from various organic materials to artificial materials of the 20th century – it also requires a wide range of ethical, conservation and restoration skills. That is why this area is a real challenge, not only for conservator-restorers, but also for curators, conservators and certified craftsmen to work in. This paper presents several reconstruction projects, as well as the approach and dilemmas when choosing methods for individual interventions. A new or deeper understanding of skills, expertise and tacit knowledge involved in the creation and use of material cultural heritage is examined. The process of understanding the topic of reconstruction, and the need for reconstruction in the conservation and restoration of metal objects of cultural heritage, is explored through the purpose and further use of restored objects. The objects featured in the paper are used as examples to question the integration of new parts, when and to what extent they should be visible, and their reversibility. The text partly describes not only very extensive technological research, but also individual aesthetic and ethical decision-making principles when restoring damaged everyday and museum objects. Regardless of conditions, possibilities, needs and wishes, the goal must always be to preserve the originality of the object, its shape, purpose, materials and manufacturing techniques – be it small or large, cheap, expensive or priceless.
Keywords
conservation; restoration; metal; reconstruction; liturgical objects; museum objects; preventive conservation
Hrčak ID:
312371
URI
Publication date:
29.12.2023.
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