Stacy,

It is impossible to say what may be causing the deterioration of the 
paint with examining the objects. If could be the result of 
enviornmental factors, the use of a paint with a low-binder, excessive 
light exposure, excessive handling, or a deteriorating plaster 
substrate.

Because problems with paint and deteriorating plaster can be complex, 
and far beyond the scope of what a collector or even curator is trained 
to deal with, it is best to recommend that handling of the plaster 
objects be kept to a minimum and that they consult with a qualified 
objects conservator with experience in the issues and treatment of 
painted plaster.

They can be directed to the AIC (American Institute for Conservation) 
that offer a free guide to services that will produce a list of objects 
conservators in their region. The AIC can be contacted at either their 
web site or by phone:

http://aic.stanford.edu
202-452-9545

They can also contact a nearby museum who may keep a referal list of 
conservators in thier region as well.

Cheers!
Dave

David Harvey
Conservator
Los Angeles, California  USA

-----Original Message-----
From: Stacy Reaves <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask]
Sent:         Thu, 11 Aug 2005 14:18:56 -0500
Subject: Plaster care

     Hello
  I have a patron with some plaster busts made in the early 1900s.  They 
are beginning to chip and the paint is beginning to crumble when 
touched and/or handled. Any suggestions on how to best preserve these 
busts and what to do to help keep them from further deterioration.
 Thanks
  
 Stacy Reaves, Ph.D
 Director/Curator
 Sand Springs Historical and Cultural Museum
 6 East Broadway
 Sand Springs, OK. 74063
 918-246-2509
  
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