Vibration Monitoring of Daniel Maclise’s Wall Painting Trafalgar

Abstract

Vibration generated by use of masonry equipment can be a threat to wall paintings. Its assessment, mitigation and control is of critical importance to risk management and the safeguarding of works of art, particularly those which are immovable. The planned programme of window restoration in the Royal Gallery, Palace of Westminster, started in 2016, directly above the monumental wall painting of Trafalgar, had the potential to cause serious damage to this painting. For a period of 18 months the Curator’s Office worked with stakeholders, conservation scientists, conservators and stone masons to minimise risk. The project developed a monitoring strategy, set vibration thresholds, managed risk and negotiated the use of tools and working methods. To assess vibration data loggers equipped with 3-axis acceleration sensors were installed at critical locations. To corroborate these findings assessment was undertaken using a sound level analyser. This assessed acceleration at a series of frequencies in the 0–100 Hz range considered most damaging to artworks. However, a critical component was conservator-led in situ monitoring of vibration. When necessary, this live monitoring allowed conservators to dynamically assess and negotiate the adaptation of tools and techniques to reduce levels. This real-time approach proved essential in understanding peaks and changes in levels of vibration; informing discussion between stakeholders, ensuring monitoring translated into effective preservation.

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