Potential Applications of Isinglass Adhesive for Paper Conservation

Abstract

In Russia, fish gelatin and isinglass have been used at least since the 17th century as adhesives in painting and icon restoration. Fish glue is prepared from the waste products of fish such as the head, skin, and bones. Isinglass is a superior fish gelatin product, the best grade being prepared from sturgeon. It is reversible, non-toxic, easy to prepare and apply; a thin film produces a strong bond. In collaboration with specialists in Food Science and Chemistry at Cornell University, the author is working on a project to develop a pure fish gelatin adhesive suitable for conservation with qualities similar to Russian isinglass. This text describes some experimental procedures involving a German-made isinglass applied to archival or tracing papers.

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