The Art of Timeless Mural Conservation: A Scientific and Experiential Approach

In this blog post, we would like to share with you the deep fascination and the challenges of one of Politistica’s most delicate activities: mural conservation. Our experience from an intervention in a historic site inspired us to analyze the methodology and the science behind this process.

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What Is a Mural/Wall Painting and Why Is It So Vulnerable?

Murals are not simply images painted on a wall. According to Cather (2003), they are multilayered systems in which the pictorial layer forms an organic whole with its substrate. Their vulnerability stems from the fact that they are directly affected by environmental factors: humidity, temperature fluctuations, photodegradation, and even human presence.

A Multi-Stage Process

Modern conservation follows a strict scientific procedure. As noted by Giorgi (2006), the first phase is always documentation and investigation. We use non-invasive techniques, such as infrared spectroscopy and ultraviolet radiation to understand the composition of pigments and the extent of deterioration.

The second stage is stabilization. Many murals suffer from flaking and detachment of the pictorial layer. We use specific conservation chemical materials, always based on the principles of reversibility and compatibility defined by international conservation protocols.

Protection from Deterioration and Oxidation

One of the greatest problems in murals is the oxidation of lead white traditionally used in the past. Bellei et al. (2018) point out that this process leads to darkening of surfaces. Modern technology allows us to use specialized ionic compounds that stabilize lead without altering the aesthetic appearance.

The Role of the Environment

Long-term preservation does not depend solely on direct intervention. Continuous monitoring of the microclimate is crucial. As Cassar (2009) notes, maintaining relative humidity between 45-55% and a stable temperature is the best form of preventive protection for murals.

Technologies of the Future

The use of expanding calcium hydroxide nanoparticles (Baglioni et al., 2015) for the removal of sulfate compounds, along with digital documentation through 3D scanning, are among the emerging conservation methods.

An Ethical Commitment

At Politistica, every intervention is based on the principle of minimal intervention. We respect the “art” of time, preserving only what is necessary for the stability of the artwork. Conservation should never be equated with aesthetic restructuring.

Mural conservation is a process that requires scientific knowledge, artistic sensitivity, and deep respect for history. If you have murals that require attention or simply wish to learn more about preventive conservation methods, feel free to contact us.

References:

• Bellei, S., et al. (2018). "Analytical Chemistry for Cultural Heritage"

• Cassar, M. (2009). "Sustainable Heritage: Challenges and Strategies"

• Cather, S. (2003). "Assessing Causes and Mechanisms of Deterioration in Wall Paintings"

• Giorgi, R. (2006). "New Methodologies for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage"