CÉRONIS BIVAXFERNISSA En undersökning av innehåll, löslighet och åldringsegenskaper

Abstract

The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of Céronis beeswax varnish by Lefranc & Bourgeois; its contents, aging properties, solubility, and possible removal methods, with Göteborgs Konstmuseum􀍛s 􀍾Gothenburg Museum of Art􀍿 collection as the stud􀇇􀍛s material􀍘 The purpose of the study is to provide a basis for decision-making regarding the treatment of works treated with Céronis wax varnish. The study is based on contemporary conservation theory and interpretation-based decision-making and utilizes FTIR, microscopy, and solubility tests to examine the properties of the varnish. The study shows that Céronis does not appear to be harmful to the treated works and has retained its solubility properties and transparency over time. There is no immediate reason to remove the varnish considering its good aging properties and the lack of potentially harmful substances in the varnish. The FTIR analysis compared the contents of the varnish with shellac, mastic and dammar. The results showed no indication of these materials in the varnish. The microscopic analysis showed no signs of porosity, dust retention, discoloration, cracking or loss of transparency. Solubility tests with isooctane in emulsion gel as well as Evolon􀂓 on selected works did not provide a desirable result and further evaluation of removal methods is therefore needed if the varnish is to be removed in the future.