Consolidation of the “Spitzer Cross”

In preparation for a CMA loan to the Getty Center for Lumen: The Art and Science of Light (Sep 10-Dec 08, 2024), I examined a 12th C mercury-gilt and champlevé enameled Limoges cross (1923.1051) for an outgoing loan report, and found that treatment was needed to stabilize fractured and fragile areas of the enamel, as well as a large area of delamination occurring on the base of the wooden support, before travel. Under the supervision of CMA objects conservator, Colleen Snyder, I reattached the delaminating area on the wooden support with 5% sturgeon glue in DI water, and consolidated the enamel with 5% B-72 in acetone, using ethanol to facilitate the process of wicking in both adhesives. I also fabricated a seismic mount and mount template to be sent with the object to the Getty, under the supervision of CMA mount maker, Philip Brutz.

*View loan examination report: Spitzer cross_663649_LE.pdf

*Additional details found during research: Additional Notes on Spitzer Cross.pdf

See my reel for the CMA’s Instagram account, in which this work is mentioned: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-nNE0qJz2S/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

*Please note that these documents are shared in good faith, and should not be shared without the permission of the author and institution.

(Video: Caroline Shaver)