Marcinkowski, Wojciech [Hrsg.]; Zaucha, Tomasz [Hrsg.]; Museum Narodowe w Krakowie [Hrsg.]: Plaster casts of the works of art: history of collections, conservation, exhibition practice ; materials from the conference in the National Museum in Krakow, May 25, 2010 (Krakau, 2010)

Anna Kłosowska, Michał Obarzanowski ■ Plaster casts in the collection.

Fig. 21. Tomb of king
Ladislaus Jagiełło,
panel of tomb chest.
Inv. no. mnk l-g-88.
Existing fragments
reattached with help
of stainless steel bolts,
missing fragment
reconstructed
on a fibreglass mesh
and stainless steel bolts.
Photo by Michał
Obarzanowski

The last stage of the conservation works was the application of a protecting coat,
dependent on the surface finish. For this we used white talcum powder, Remmers
Funcosil ow or varnish and microcrystalline wax.

Essential conservation treatment of the whole collection was performed to stop
the degradation processes and eliminated main destruction sources. Despite the fact
that the scope of work and limited time did not allow for detailed case studies
of each and every object, we were able to handle all objects so they are safe to exhibit
and store. Now, to maintain its present condition, a proper preventive conservation
policy has been applied. As the "Krakow Within Your Reach" exhibition and study
storeroom is organized in a historical cellar complex in the Bishop Erazm Ciołek
Gothic and Renaissance palace, the rh levels need to be continuously monitored
and maintained by means of special equipment. All objects are kept in intentionally
designed sealed cabinets, showcases and freestanding, fully glazed kiosks with inner
shelve systems. This helps to keep environmental conditions at acceptable levels
and minimises the deposition of dust and other particles.

The way for future conservation, based on more detailed studies and research
is always open. We are aware that our work was in some terms basic and some
particular objects might want to be further handled.

115