Tin-mercury amalgam mirrors are found throughout small and mid-sized historical collections as tin-mercury amalgam was the primary method for producing glass mirrors from the 16th to the early 20th century. Beyond mirrors or looking glasses, other mirrored objects such as sconces and carriage lanterns also feature this type of material. Over time as these objects deteriorate, the amalgam becomes unstable, and mercury is released into the environment in both liquid and vapor states. While mercury contamination poses significant health risks, this webinar will highlight current practices for the safe handling and preventive conservation of these objects, as well as how to manage the risks posed by these objects while allowing for their exhibition. This webinar will also highlight:
-How tin-mercury amalgam mirrors were made and how they deteriorate
-Health risks and routes of exposure for mercury
-Methods for mercury testing
-Safe handling, cleaning, and care protocols for tin-mercury amalgam objects
Presenter: Marie Desrochers, Graduate Fellow, Class of 2021, Winterthur/University of Delaware Program in Art Conservation
https://connectingtocollections.org/care_of_tin_mercury_amalgam_mirrors/
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Robin Bauer Kilgo (she/her/hers)
Connecting to Collections Care Coordinator, FAIC
c2cc@culturalheritage.org
Contract Registrar/Consultant
rbkilgo@gmail.com
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