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Laboratory for Scientific Restoration of Precious Metals Òålephone: (812) 710-98-41 The State Hermitage collection has splendid items of jewellery which urgently require restoration. In 2004 the decision was taken to create a Laboratory for Scientific Restoration of Precious Metals which is equipped with the latest devices for restoring jewellery. Work in this restoration department will draw upon the knowledge of the old masters and also upon the most recent achievements of science and technology. When restoring fragile articles which are made from mineral pigments, pearl, enamel, feathers, textiles and other organic materials, laser welding will be performed, since this makes it possible to restore museum exhibits without taking the stones from their mountings. The laboratory conducts research work into the creation of new methods to be followed in the restoration of objects made from precious metals. Special attention is given to the study of jewellery technologies, to computer prototyping and to the application of modern polymers to hold and conserve enamels on gold and silver. Digital photo and video techniques are used to record all the processes in the restoration work. Restoration of jewellers’ works Head: Igor Malkiyel The collection of the State Hermitage includes some magnificent works of jewellery in urgent need of restoration. For this reason in 2004 the museum created a Laboratory for Scientific Restoration of Precious Metals fitted out with the latest restoration and jewellery-making equipment. In 2006 the staff of the laboratory restored ninety works of jewellery and prepared exhibits for eight exhibitions in Russia, Britain, Holland, Poland and France. The laboratory carries out trials of modern restoration equipment and polymers and conducts research to develop new methods of restoring items made from precious metals. The laboratory is greatly assisted by sponsors who each year donate modern restoration and jewellery-making equipment and laboratory supplies. A unique laser device capable of recording in both video and still photography was specially created for the laboratory. It is intended for the restoration of delicate items which are decorated with mineral paints, pearls, enamel, feathers, fabric, mastics and other organic materials. This equipment is vital for the restoration of thick-walled objects and filigree decoration. The Hermitage’s collection of Oriental gold and silver filigree jewellery from the 17th to 19th century is one of the best in the world. These miniature items were made from the finest gold and silver wire, some as little as 50 microns across. Prolonged research work to produce test tables and programmes for welding metals of any kind has made it possible to restore these articles too. To visually monitor the work restorers use non-ocular stereo microscopes and stereo magnifiers. This technical equipment makes it possible to improve the quality of restoration work and to offer a wider spectrum of possibilities to researchers.Restoration programmes: 1. Restoration of the writing-set of William III of Orange, stadholder of the Netherlands 2. Restoration of a silver censer
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 Imperial throne. Coats of arms of tsardoms and principalities. Detail England, master Nicholas Clausen. 1731 Larger view |
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