Date of Award

9-2026

Access Control

Open Access

Degree Name

Art Conservation, M.A., C.A.S

Department

Art Conservation Department

Advisor

Emily Hamilton

First Reader

Jiuan Jiuan Chen

Second Reader

Rebecca Ploeger

Third Reader

Glennis E. Rayermann

Abstract

This thesis presents a comparative technical and conservation study of three Islamic ceramics in the collection of the Buffalo Museum of Science: a 9th-century Nishapur bowl, a Nishapur-style pastiche plate assembled in the early 20th century, and a 17th-century Kubachi dish. Through historical research, condition assessment, multispectral imaging, elemental analysis, and microscopy, the study investigates the materials and fabrication technologies of each object while documenting the layered histories of excavation, collecting, and restoration that shaped their current forms. Conservation treatments were considered using contemporary ethical frameworks emphasizing transparency and historical integrity. Interventions included the removal of discolored fills and aged adhesives, desalination, stain reduction, structural stabilization, and the creation of fills with carefully considered levels of aesthetic reintegration. Technical analysis refined or reassessed attributions, revealing distinct clay bodies, slip compositions, and glaze technologies across the objects. By combining scientific analysis with historical contextualization and conservation decision making, this study reveals the complex biographies of Islamic ceramics and the roles played by collectors, dealers, and museums in shaping their modern identities. The results contribute to broader conversations on authenticity, ethical restoration, and the stewardship of Islamic cultural heritage in museum contexts, offering new perspectives for re-evaluating ceramics acquired through the art market that reflect early archaeological collecting and restoration practices.

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