Conservation
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Frank Matero and a team from the University of Pennsylvania, and Connie Silver are spearheading the task of conserving, lifting, and restoring the wall paintings and sculptures. They have started a staged programme of research and treatment. Phase 1. Background research, and initial laboratory research of the samples. Preliminary work on site has involved experimentation with stabilisation and transfer. A rig has been built on site (directed by Lindsay Falk) in order to drill behind and then lift sections of wall plaster up to 2.5 tons in weight. Phase 2. A complete programme of examination and analysis of samples, followed by replication of walls and mural paintings. The replications will be used for experimental conservation techniques. Laboratory assessment of the model treatments are being made. Phase 3. Implementation of the conservation field programme on site. The treatments will be monitored over the research period. An advisory panel including the Istanbul Conservation Laboratory and Paolo and Laura Mora from Italy is being set up. |