Davina Kuh Jakobi
Publications
2017
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Abstract: Ship models, which are found within a wide variety of institutional collections around the world, represent a type of object that is particularly challenging to keep and conserve within the museum setting. The preservation and conservation of ship models can be further complicated when they are on open display, or when they are particularly large. Such is the case with the William Rex, a 4.1 metre tall fully-rigged wooden ship model, which is on permanent open display in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. This paper explores the challenges associated with the display and preservation of the William Rex from a conservation perspective. Additionally, this discussion will provide some insight into the organisation of the Collections Department within the Rijksmuseum and the interdepartmental collaboration required to keep the William Rex shipshape.
Post-print for AIC 45th Annual Conference Treatment 2017: Innovation in Conservation and Collection Care
2017
Abstract: On ship models, rigging and sails are considered an important aesthetic component representative of a vital functional element. These materials are often the first part of the ship model to experience damage. Traditionally, damaged, desiccated, or period-inappropriate rigging and sails were often removed and replaced as part of the restoration process. This historic practice of re-rigging and replacing sails still remains common in the field of ship model restoration on an international scale within both private and institutional collections. However, the ethics of performing full and even partial restoration on the textile components found on these unique objects must be carefully considered, especially in regards to miniature scale and non-technical ship models. This paper will describe the recent conservation treatment of the textile portion of the Thetis, a 1:150 scale (estimated) fully-rigged model of a 24 gun, three deck frigate in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. This treatment will explore the material and ethical considerations associated with a partial conservation treatment of ship model rigging and sails on miniature, non-technical ship models. As there is little to no formal literature regarding the in situ treatment of these components, this treatment will also provide a suggested practical methodology for the in situ conservation treatment of ship model rigging and sails.
Review of the Ship Model Conservation Course: Understanding Techniques for Research and Conservation at the Rijksmuseum
In: ICOM-CC Theory and History Working Group Newsletter 21
2017
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Abstract: not available.
We're all in the Same Boat: Using Ship Models to Promote Collaboration
In: Museological Review: The Global Microphone, Issue 20, pp.27-35
Published by: University of Leicester
May 2016
Abstract: As the theme for this issue of the Museological Review suggests, museums exist as part of a ‘web of relationships’. Therefore, it is imperative that museum professionals embrace this interrelatedness and continue to cultivate inter-museum and multidisciplinary partnerships and programmes, especially on an international level. Although collaborative efforts surround particular collections within the museum, they may be of great benefit to the wider fields of conservation and museology. This is because they provide a means to share experiences and knowledge while offering each museum an opportunity to further refine their own research and conservation goals as well as promote their own collections and programmes. Using the collaboration between the Rijksmuseum and the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich regarding ship model conservation, this paper will illustrate the importance of initiating and developing collaborative programmes to amplify institutional messages regarding the importance of preservation, conservation, technical analysis, and professional development opportunities, which are among the fundamental aspects of good museum practice.
Unrolling Lead Scrolls at Kaman-Kalehöyük: A Practical Methodology
In: Anatolian Archaeological Studies Volume XIX
Published by: Japanese Institute of Archaeology
2016
Abstract: Over the past twenty years, a number of rolled lead scrolls had been excavated from Kaman-Kalehöyük. Ahead of the 2013 season, it was decided that the lead scrolls were finally to be unrolled as the conservation internship project at Kaman-Kalehöyük. The methodology applied in the unrolling of 16 lead scrolls during the 2013 season includes preliminary cleaning using electrolytic reduction, unrolling using the application of heat, a secondary cleaning using mechanical methods, reintegration of fragments, and consolidation and backing as needed, as well as the construction of specialized housing for each scroll, and represents a significant improvement over previous methods that have been attempted on-site or those that have been suggested in the literature (Oddy and Wheatly, 1975). Although no markings are readily discernible, the lead scrolls are stable and due to the mounting system, can be handled indirectly when the interior portion of the scroll is studied. While the proposed methodology has allowed for the unrolling of lead scrolls from the site of Kaman-Kalehöyük, it is important to note that each scroll was unrolled with varying degrees of success. This may have been due to the variations in corrosion product, presence of accretions, how tightly rolled, thickness of material, as well as previous treatments.
In: Soccer&Society Special Issue, pp.1-13
Published by: Routledge Taylor & Francis Group
October 2014
Abstract: There is no doubt that the dedication and passion that surrounds collecting football-related cultural heritage is almost as strong as the passion that surrounds the beautiful game itself. As such, the care, preservation, and conservation of football-related artefacts are issues that are becoming more widely recognized as in need of further development by collection institutions, such as clubs and museums. During this 150th anniversary, it is therefore important to understand not only the challenges, but the opportunities in the preservation of the beautiful game off the pitch so that this unique cultural heritage may survive for another 150 years. Understanding the necessity for archival storage, digitization, and the creation of a unified approach are some more traditional solutions that may ensure the longevity of football-related heritage. But what more can be done? This article will explore public outreach and the education of the fan base as a solution in raising awareness so that they too may take ownership regarding the preservation of their cultural heritage and passions.
Choices and decision-making in conservation: The implications of conserving religious icons
Published by: University College London School of European Languages, Culture and Society
2014
Abstract: The goal of conservation is to preserve cultural heritage for future generations. However, there are a wide variety of perspectives regarding the conservation of material cultural heritage. Differences of opinion stem from the materials and deterioration present, or the function and history of the object. From the degree of interventive treatment to the choice of materials that will be used during treatment, conservators often differ in opinion regarding the treatment of cultural heritage. But what do these different methods imply for the object? Is there actually a ‘right’ way? Using religious icons as the lens for this discussion, various conservation approaches will be explored. This paper will allow a glimpse of the variety of issues which must be considered during the conservation process, and will demonstrate that above all, that there are no easy answers and no shortage of conflicting opinions in the field of conservation.
Understanding the Implications of Display
Post-print for Archaeology in the 21st century
2013
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Abstract: not available
All articles on Understanding the Urban Visual Landscape (January 2010 to March 2011), including (but not limited to):
How Connoisseurs Justify an Inherently Illegal Act: Does Legality Undermine Authenticity?, 30 March 2011
Yarn Bombing: A New Spin on an Old Craft, 9 February 2011
You’ll Miss Me When I’m Gone: A Plea for the Proper Documentation of Street Art, 29 December 2010
How Os Gêmeos Legitimized Street Art in Brazil, 15 December 2010
The Underbelly Project: A Dream Finally Realized, 1 December 2010
Challenging Urban Disassociation: How Swoon’s Paper People Create Community, 27 October 2010
