The impact of vibrations on fragile historical mixed-media objects

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Willemien Anaf
Marina Van Bos
Marjolijn Debulpaep
William Wei
Luc Schillemans
Tom Carton

Abstract

The Enclosed Gardens of Mechelen are beautiful examples of historical mixed-media objects. Since they are extremely fragile, vibrations are considered a major agent of deterioration. To prepare and evaluate their permanent exhibition and to support decision making for future loans, three experiments were performed to estimate the vibrational impact. First, resonant frequencies were defined in a shaker table experiment. Second, the impact of transport was considered. A truck transport of three Gardens to a temporary exhibition was monitored and the condition of the Gardens was documented before and after transport. Finally, a vibrational assessment was performed on the permanent display.

Keywords: Enclosed gardens, Preventive conservation, Resonant frequency, Transport, Vibrations, Damping

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References

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