Before and after treatment.
This wreath is composed of many flowers and leaves made
completely from feathers set into a deep oval frame. The
feathers were extremely fragile and any abrupt movement
might cause loss of feathers or some loosening. Mold was
identified on the surface of the glass and on the board to
which the wreath was attached, as well as layers of dirt
and debris over all of the surfaces inside the frame.
The artifact could not be turned upside down. The frame was
carefully taken apart for cleaning while a system was
created to support the wreath during treatment. The wreath
was carefully vacuumed and the mold staining on the frame
was cleaned. A new acid-free mount was made to fit inside
the frame and the secured stabilized wreath was returned to
the frame with screws. It was recommended that the wreath
be stored in a moderated environment with a relative
humidity below 65% to prevent the reactivation of mold.