Department Chair
Patrick Ravines
Date of Award
8-2019
Access Control
Open Access
Degree Name
Art Conservation, M.A., C.A.S.
Department
Art Conservation Department
Advisor
Jonathan Thornton
Department Home page
https://artconservation.buffalostate.edu
First Reader
Jiuan Jiuan Chen
Second Reader
Dr. Rebecca Ploeger
Third Reader
Dr. Aaron Shugar
Abstract
A stringed musical instrument from the Buffalo Museum of Science was received for conservation treatment at Buffalo State College. Historical research, examination of previous interventions through imaging techniques, and material analysis were carried out to possibly place the instrument in a historical context and create an understanding of its fabrication. Transmission-Fourier transform infrared microscopy (Transmission-FTIR), pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (py-GC-MS), x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), and microchemical testing were utilized to understand the coatings on the body of the instrument. Polarized light microscopy (PLM) was performed on the fibers, hair, and wood to understand the materials used in manufacture and their possible origin. Once an understanding of the manufacture and the potential origin was established, the object was treated with a focus on the fabrication of missing tuning components. The instrument can now be understood and displayed as a chikara, a folk instrument in the family of instruments called sarangis.
Recommended Citation
Wright, Kaitlyn, "ANALYSIS AND CONSERVATION OF A CHIKARA" (2019). Art Conservation Master's Projects. 82.
https://digitalcommons.buffalostate.edu/art_con_projects/82
