Some works of art are meant to take you by surprise; a sculpture that came into The Center recently did just that. Half deer and half man, this curious ceramic and felt piece came without an explanation or backstory. However, it did come with a broken hoof and several other complications for our conservators to address.
The sculpture exhibited a layer of particulate film throughout, and there was a break in the ceramic base at the creature's right ankle. One large fragment and a series of small fragments had been retained by the client. Additionally, there was a 2" fracture on the base in between the legs.
Our Objects Conservator and Textile Conservator worked together to carefully surface clean the piece. Our Objects Conservator then adhered the right hoof and retained fragments using conservation-grade adhesives.
Before Treatment
After Treatment
Before Treatment
After Treatment
Before Treatment
After Treatment
Next, any losses, cracks, and missing fragments were filled. Lastly, the break lines were inpainted with reversible conservation paints to emulate the surrounding surface as best as possible. The Center's art handlers then carefully wrapped the sculpture for its return home to our client, and our repair of the curious creature was complete.
Before Treatment
After Treatment
