The Treatment of
The Prodigal Son Tending the Swine
1538 Engraving by Hans Sebald Beham
About the Artist
Condition on Arrival
On close examination, the paper exhibited diffuse discoloration, moderate surface dirt, and foxing scattered throughout the sheet. The top edge showed the most concentrated staining, corresponding to areas where tape and hinge materials had been previously applied. These materials had restricted the paper’s natural ability to expand and contract with changes in humidity, resulting in visible undulations.
Conservation Goals and Treatment
Conservation began with gentle surface cleaning on both sides to lift loose dirt. To address the old hinges and tapes at the top verso corners, a methylcellulose poultice was carefully applied and followed by damp swabbing to release the adhesive without disturbing the fibers. The print was then slowly humidified using a Gore-Tex system, allowing the paper to safely rehydrate and expand in a controlled environment.
Next, the sheet was blotter-washed with water that had been conditioned to appropriate pH and conductivity levels. As the washing process progressed, the solution was adjusted to be slightly alkaline. With the print still wet, it was placed under a light bank to help gently brighten the sheet.
Following this, residual staining along the top edge was reduced with a targeted foxing treatment. After this local reduction, the print was humidified again and rinsed on a damp blotter. Finally, it was dried under weight, restoring the sheet to a stable, planar state.
Results
