Expert: Nanetta Bananto - 4/1/2005

Question
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Followup To
Question -
I recently picked up an old indian beadwork bag? bandelera?  with extensive and intricate beadwork.  Can I send you some photos?  I would like to know how to best preserve it and to display it?  If you happen to know the tribe and location, so much the better.  I did have a local appraisal and they said that it was most likely dated between 1840-1860 and was from an east coast tribe?
Answer -
Dear Anna - I would love to see the photo, but I am not an expert in antique beaded items.  I think the appraisal is your best bet.  However, I will give it a shot.

As for preservation, the best thing is to do no repairs as that will compromise the original condition value.  And do not clean it in any way except a good, but gentle dusting with a clean mop brush.  Also, if you got an appraisal, I would have it insured for that value.  

I would recommend having it displayed in a shadow box of some kind.  Any good frame shop could reccomend an artful solution.  Also, frame shops are usually versed in archival techniques - acid free, etc.  So be sure to ask about that.  If there is a way it can be framed in a double sided frame, so the back is viewable - all the better.  I truly believe something is lost if one side is obscurred.

Be sure to keep the appraisal in a safe place.   

Use fine art rules of thumb: Store or display in the most moderate climate possible - not in the kitchen or bath or a room which generates moisture.  Do not display in direct sunlight. And display in an area where it won't get a lot of vibration - if there is any torn areas or loose beads they are likely to become looser.

I hope this helps.  

Nanetta

Thank you for your response, I was thinking of some kind of shadow box, but didn't even get so far as thinking acid free!  What should I do about the loose beads?  Most are fairly secure, but it is old and some are dropping off the fringe.  How do I send a photo through here?

Answer
Dear Anna - I didn't realize I had another letter from you.  I would never have waited this long to get back to you!  

You can email me at nbananto@gmail.com - send the photos to me there.  

Again, I did not directly recieve your email, so I am sorry for the delay.

Nanetta