
04/14/2022
Many visitors to SAAM’s Lunder Conservation Center are surprised to see a large sink in the paper conservation lab. They often ask: “What is the sink used for? Doesn't water damage paper?”
Certainly, unplanned contact between water and a print, drawing, or photograph is an emergency which can, in some cases, result in permanent damage. At the same time, paper conservators, with extensive knowledge and experience, can use water to treat a variety of problems with artworks on paper, stabilizing and improving its appearance.
SAAM conservator Kate Maynor explains the delicate process of washing artworks on paper, in this case, a linoleum cut print by Mabel Pugh that required a washing treatment to reduce discolored adhesive and several types of staining.
SAAM conservator Kate Maynor explains the delicate process of washing paper