Posters will be on display in the AIC Exhibit Hall on Thursday, May 29, and Friday, May 30. Poster authors will be at their poster for a Q&A session on Friday, May 30, at 3:30pm.
Banner photo by Lane Pelovsky, Courtesy of Meet Minneapolis
This study focuses on the conservation and restoration of a limestone column segment from the New Kingdom, originally housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The artifact features engravings on three sides depicting a man in a devotional pose, with hieroglyphic inscriptions on the fourth side. It was transferred to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) for essential restoration work prior to its exhibition.
The column was in a severe state of deterioration due to high salt content, which caused fragment detachment and surface degradation. A close collaboration between conservators and chemists was essential to analyze the chemical composition of the salts, leading to the development of a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan.
The research highlights the development of a specialized, salt-resistant mortar, designed to fill gaps and support the structural integrity of the column. This innovation represents a significant step forward in the field of conservation, addressing one of the primary challenges posed by salt-induced deterioration.
The restoration process included salt extraction, consolidation of fragile fragments, and the application of the newly formulated mortar. This study underscores the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation in archaeological conservation, illustrating how teamwork between conservators and chemists can result in innovative solutions to complex preservation challenges.
The research concludes with an evaluation of the restoration outcomes, emphasizing the significance of displaying this unique column in the GEM. The study reinforces the importance of ongoing collaboration and innovation in preserving Egypt’s cultural heritage for future generations.
