B

   frequently require conservation

treatment. Generally, panel paintings are rejoined to improve the

integrity of the image while preserving the object as a whole.

Common problems include joint failure, splits, and a perceived necessity

to improve joint alignment. Also, the support may need to be strengthened

to forestall deterioration or to prevent the need for reinforcement by other

means that may prove more damaging in the long term. In some cases, the

option of not rejoining may be preferable.

Though a specialized approach may be recommended for the

rejoining^1 of panels, it is not always possible. The following discussion and

outline of general considerations might prove helpful in cases where a

conservator who seldom encounters the necessity of rejoining finds there

are no other means available. Three cases exemplifying panel rejoining

methods used at the Hamilton Kerr Institute (HKI) are described. Each

case represents a particular rejoining problem and the specific treatment

methods and apparatus employed.

Detailed descriptions of rejoining procedures are not common in

conservation literature, although various types of apparatus have been

mentioned (Hermesdorf1953; Kozlowski 1962; Glatigny 1989; Reeve

1989). Discussion in the section below entitled “Smaller Apparatus” gives a

basic rationale while providing foundation information for the following

sections. Finally, some disadvantages of the last apparatus, for treating

panels vertically, are discussed. Better methods are continually evolving,

sothose described should not be taken as a fixed approach.

The pressures applied to rejoin a panel may be divided into two basic types

according to their purpose and orientation in space (Fig. 1). The first type,

joining pressure,as referred to in this article, is usually directed from the

opposite edges of the panel, and thence, roughly, through the panel’s

plane and perpendicular to the line of the intended joint. This is usually

done with bar clamps, though other possibilities exist, such as windlass-

type straps, air or hydraulic pressure, and other mechanical devices. The

use of bar clamps to rejoin a significantly warped panel can make pressure

application difficult. Therefore, it is generally not an ideal method. The

panel may bend into a greater warp, risking breakage, damaging the con-

tact area of the joining surfaces, and negating careful alignment.

Joining Pressure

418

Al Brewer

Some Rejoining Methods for Panel Paintings

3

3

1

2

1

2

Figure 1
General direction of application for the types
ofpressures (indicated by arrows) used to
rejoin panel paintings: (1) joining pressure,
(2)out-of-plane alignment pressure, and
(3) in-plane alignment pressure.