Conservation and restoration of metal artefacts 1402-KZM-4Z-SJ

CONVERSATORY (DURATION OF INDIVIDUAL TOPICS AND THEIR SCHEDULE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE).

Lecture 1
Introduction to Metal Materials Science
Definition of metallic materials, physicochemical characteristics, classification of metals and alloys, review of relevant literature.

Lecture 2
Techniques of Shaping and Decorating Metal Artifacts (1 hour)
Basic materials and tools used in metalworking, metal decoration techniques. Introduction to workshop terminology related to goldsmithing.

Lecture 3
Types of Corrosion and Forms of Deterioration of Metal Artifacts
Definition of corrosion, classification of corrosion types based on the mechanism of corrosion processes, environment, involvement of mechanical factors, extent, forms of damage, main corrosion stimulators.

Lectures 4–8
Methodology of Conservation of Metal Artifacts
Methods of removing corrosion layers: mechanical, thermal, physical, electrochemical, and electrolytic.
Permanent and detachable methods of joining metals.
Methods of filling losses.
Methods and means of corrosion prevention. Anti-corrosion coatings.
Non-destructive testing techniques in conservation diagnostics of metal artifacts (microscopic observation, microscopic photography, alloy analysis by XRF, observation and photography under ultraviolet light).

Lectures 9–15
Characteristics of Metals and Alloys Used in Artistic Craftsmanship, Corrosion, and Conservation Methods and Means
Aluminum, zinc, iron, tin, lead, copper, silver, gold – history of individual metals and their major alloys, occurrence and types of ores, physicochemical characteristics, types of alloys, outline of their historical use in art and craftsmanship, typical corrosion changes, methods and means used in their conservation, discussion of conservation case studies depending on exhibition environment and type of artifact applying conservation principles.

Terminology Related to Metal Artifacts –
Presented and discussed in each lecture on metal materials science, corrosion, metal craft workshop practices, and object typology.