by April Niino, Penny Nii Quilt Art
Ethnic and Folk Arts
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Collector's Corner
Display
Consider how the basket was meant to be used or displayed. A basket that is consistently hung, mounted, or rested on a part never intended for that purpose, will incur damage. Alternate your display, changing the baskets that are out, with others that have been safely stored away for a period of time. Rotation will limit their exposure to deteriorating factors.Protection
A perfect environment for baskets rarely exists. Fading and bleaching, are common problems, in addition to the embrittlement of baskets. This can be avoided by keeping baskets away from direct sunlight and high intensity artificial lighting. Dirt, dust, grime, and insects are also a problem when basketry is place near open windows, exterior doors, houseplants, and pets. Keep your baskets out of the kitchen or away from fireplaces and gas or oil furnace registers to eliminate the possibility of grease and soot deposits. Basketry materials can also stain and absorb odors from foods, perfumes, and cigarettes.Changes in temperature and humidity will cause your basket to expand and
contract. This will cause the basketry materials to distort and become
brittle. Avoid placing baskets in bathrooms and near exterior walls which
have frequent and more severe fluctuations in temperature and humidity.The value of any basket lies in the preservation of the use which the
artist intended. Evidence of wear on basketry materials, such as loss of
fiber, patinas, and some breaks, can result from the intended use of the
basket. Such "damage" reflects the natural use and may actually enhance
the worth of the piece. Adding, "improving," altering, or reworking the
piece in any way reduces the value and should be avoided.
Repair
If damage to your basket has occurred, this damage can never be entirely undone. You can only slow down the aging process by taking precautions and preserving what remains.Repairing a basket presents a difficult problem, since repairs may or
may not be compatible with the original structure. It is very possible
that repairs will only draw attention to the inherent weaknesses in the
piece. Coatings and oils do nothing to further the life of a basket but
can be responsible for damages that worsen with age. Glues, tapes, and
adhesives used for repairs often stain the materials. Wires, staples, and
threads that are used to mount or repair a basket will damage the fibers.What can you do if your basket needs attention? The first step is to
consult a trained basket conservator. Find out what your options are.
Prepare to ask the conservator how the damage relates to the materials,
structure and use of the basket. Ask for alternative methods and how such
methods will affect the future life of your basket. Seek more than one
opinion. If you are dissatisfied with one conservator's knowledge and
experience with basketry, look for another.Revere Collection is produced by IPPI whose mission is to bring you the highest quality products, exhibits and information on the web. Other IPPI sites can be found at http://www.ippi.com/
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