Peeling Pot

This partially preserved pitcher with three handles had undergone conservation treatment in the past, but was in need of a gentle touch-up when it came to us. The previous conservator had used a standard technique to add structural support to the reconstructed vessel by applying plaster fills to the gaps between the original sherds; these fills had then been carefully painted to match the colour of the ceramic.

Both the fill and the retouching had been done very well, and were barely noticeable from afar, but unfortunately the paint had not sufficiently adhered to the fills and had started to peel away, revealing the white plaster underneath.

Above: Before conservation - details of peeling paint & plaster fills

Our conservators started by removing all of the old paint from the fills, including those areas that hadn’t yet begun to peel, as a precaution against it peeling in the future. Once that was done, acrylic paints were used to carefully match the colour of the glaze, including the little black glazing dots. Finally, a coat of diluted lacquer was applied over the paints, creating the same glossy appearance as seen on the original sherds.

Above: During the retouching process (image 1) and after conservation (Images 2 & 3)