Brandeis Libraries: Daumier Preservation Component

The Role of Preservation in the Daumier Project

The preservation component of the Honoré Daumier Digitization Project focuses on the issues relating to preserving the original paper lithographs for the future generations of researchers. The preservation activities of the project include examining the condition of each lithograph, documenting in-house treatment, and identifying materials that require treatment from an outside conservation facility.

The Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC), the largest nonprofit regional conservation center in the United States, was consulted to determine the relevant factors to be considered in designing a Paper Condition Survey. Using criteria established by the Center, a spreadsheet was created to document the condition and physical characteristics of the lithographs. In-house treatments including various hinging techniques and storage materials were also reviewed.

Every lithograph is examined prior to digitizing to identify design medium, paper type and strength, mechanical damage, and discoloration. The mat, hinge and interleaving material, intended to protect the artwork, are assessed for damaging elements. Since many of these prints are from the large editions done on newsprint, damages most commonly noted are frayed edges, creasing, punctures, and small tears. Lithographs printed on wove white paper however, have little damage. The paper is radiant and the clarity of the image is striking.

In-house treatment includes pre-scan surface cleaning, removal of brittle hinges, and replacement of hinges, mats and interleaving material. Surface cleaning is done before the images are digitized. Hinge, mat and interleaving material replacement will be done once all the lithographs have been examined and the inventory of repairs is complete.

Damages that affect the long-term survival of the lithographs are identified on the Paper Examination Spreadsheet. Treatments outside the scope of work performed in the Library's Conservation Lab will be sent to the NEDCC for treatment. This would include items glued to brittle paper backings and those that have been repaired with adhesive tapes.

The Preservation Department's mission is to preserve the research collections of the Brandeis University Libraries. For more information on the preservation aspects of this project please contact Leslie Reicher, Preservation Officer.

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