Szilágyi András (szerk.): Ars Decorativa 26. (Budapest, 2008)

Róza BRENNER: Conservation of a Pair of 18th Century Leather Boots Shrunken and Deformed at High Temperature

slight arch and finally ends in a slight peak at the middle. Decoration The upper of the boot is richly embroidered in metal thread and sequins along the seams. Under the leather there is a linen cloth of natural colour as a brace; the stitches go through both layers. Five kinds of sequin were used. Tiny metal spiral pieces were applied to the silk sewing thread on the face (bouillon technique) to enrich the embroidery. The upper edge of the leg is adorned with plaited silver thread trimming. Description of state The most drastic deformations of the boots were caused by direct contact with high temperature as well as the time spent under the rubble and the seasonally changing climatic conditions. The upper and the sole got badly crinkled and dried out almost becoming immovable 2. Structure of the boot hard and deformed. One of the boots shrunk to about 80% of its original height and was flattened by the weight collapsed upon it. The metal thread embroidery, sequins and spurs were corroded to black colour. The fastening thread got worn and torn at places so some sequins were missing. The boot that did not shrink had the leather rent on the head part at several points. The silver-plated spur broke off from the upper fastening strap and bent towards the sole. The whole surface of the leather was covered by reddish dust filling the tiniest cracks, and the sequins were covered by soot. Procedure of conservation To plan the details of conservation, first material tests had to be carried out. Next I did adhesive tests to choose the right adhesive mixture to support the torn leather parts. 3. Size change of the shrunken boot