Polish Archaeology in the Mediterranean (12.2000(2001))

WEST SAQQARA

EGYPT

48% and 62% (50-57% on the average),
while temperature and humidity variations
outside the shelter are much higher.
Conservation work inside the chapel
focused on the treatment of disconnected
parts and air holes. Almost all the walls
(except the facade) were systematically
subjected to this procedure, and particular
care was given to the eastern (hunting
scene) and southern walls, as well as to the
entrance jambs. Primal E 330 in 8% water
solution was used for attaching to the

ground. Prior to this, a small quantity of
95% ethyl alcohol mixed with water in 1:1
proportions was injected in order to
diminish surface tensions.
A different procedure was followed
where the salt concentrations were
particularly big or where applying a water
solution of Primal initiated a process of salt
concentration on the wall surface (southern
wall and northern jamb). Here, the use of
a 5-7% solution of paraloid in toluene
proved more appropriate.


Fig. 1. Facade of the funerary chapel of vizier Meref-nebef Re-inserted fragments of the “outer
architrave” (Photo J. Sliwa)

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