Page:The Waning of the Middle Ages (1924).djvu/379

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The preservation of antiquities is one of the most difficult problems that confronts collectors and curators of Museums and Art Galleries. Mr. Lucas has written a practical account, devoid of technicalities, so that his accumulated knowledge may be readily available to those interested in the subject. His practical experience has extended over a number of years, and he has recently been associated with Mr. Howard Carter in regard to the preservation of the numerous art treasures found in the Tomb of Tutankamen. He commences with a general account of methods of preservation and restoration, emphasizing the necessity of a preliminary examination as to the nature and composition of the object before applying any specific treatment. This is followed by an account of the best methods available for use with the different materials such as papyrus, paintings, bronzes, etc.—the materials being