I think I've had enough of list subscribers guessing at appropriate treatments
for museum objects. Is it possible that all of you have forgotten how to use a
simple but ancient device, the TELEPHONE? Use of this object requires that one
actually contact a Professional Conservator personally. If you don't have the
phone number of one handy, then you can call the American Institute for
Conservation in Washington DC and they will employ their computer to provide a
handy list of member conservators who profess knowledge in any area you choose.
This country is also blessed with several regional conservation centers, also
equipped with telephones, and the staff of these centers are often quite happy
to answer questions. Believe it or not, large museums come equipped with
conservators on staff and they answer questions also.

If all else fails, call your state or regional museum association office. DO NOT
rely on the guesses of well meaning but uninformed colleagues who post to this
list. NO ONE can proscribe appropriate treatment for an object unless they have
examined the object or have a very detailed description of the object's
condition.

Quit wasting bandwith on idle speculation and inaccurate guess work. As museum
staff we have a responsibility to protect the cultural property entrusted to our
care, not endanger the stuff further.

Gutenkauf
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