Date of Award
9-2026
Access Control
Open Access
Degree Name
Art Conservation, M.A., C.A.S
Department
Art Conservation Department
Advisor
Fiona Beckett, M.A.
Department Home page
https://artconservation.buffalostate.edu/
First Reader
Jiuan Jiuan Chen, C.A.S.
Second Reader
Rebecca Ploeger, Ph.D.
Third Reader
Glennis Rayermann, Ph.D.
Abstract
The conservation of portrait miniatures on ivory is a niche topic that bridges traditional conservation specializations. The gum Arabic paint media, ivory support, and paper backings in combination with metal framing and glass glazing results in a complex interdisciplinary challenge. To date, there is relatively little published on the technical examination and conservation of these unique paintings. This technical examination and conservation treatment aimed to deepen conservation knowledge through art historical and materials research to conserve “Man in Black”, a split ivory portrait miniature roughly dating to the 1830’s. Professionals specializing in ivory portrait miniature conservation were consulted. Nondestructive scientific analysis was employed including X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (XRF), Micro-Transflection Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, and Micro-Transmission Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy to characterize colorants and adhesive residues. Bayesian binary regression model analysis was performed on XRF data to determine all four miniatures were likely painted on African elephant ivory. A HIROX digital microscope (HRX-01 High Resolution Digital Microscope) was employed to identify damages not easily observable in normal viewing conditions. Multimodal imaging was performed to develop conservation knowledge of the surface and material components. Modern advances in technical imaging have to proven to provide new insights in the examination of ivory portrait miniatures. The findings of scientific analysis and multimodal imaging guided the multidisciplinary conservation treatment of “Man in Black”. Drawing from paper, paintings, and objects conservation practices, the split miniature was rejoined and stabilized. After aesthetic treatment, the associated frame was adjusted to create a microclimate to reduce damaging fluctuations in relative humidity. Recent advancements in high resolution imaging, aqueous cleaning, and scientific analysis have proven instrumental in the investigation and conservation of ivory portrait miniatures. These findings also highlight a need for further investigation to support the specialized care and research of these understudied paintings.
Recommended Citation
Marino, K. 2028. A Split Portrait: Technical Imaging, Analysis, and Conservation of Ivory Portrait Miniatures. M.A., M.S. diss., Buffalo State University, Buffalo.
ADA Title II Compliant
1
