86 The sculpture of the crucified Christ Consolidation of the flaking preparation and paint layer As all tested consolidants showed certain negative effects – mostly swelling of the ground and paper layer – polar solvents were omitted and consolidation was done with Ethylcellulose ET200 in medical benzine and a small quantity of toluene (80/20). Consolidation of the supporting structure Certain parts of the sculpture (the head and neck), severely damaged by the wood eating insects, had to be consolidated in order to prevent further loss of the original material. A 20% solution of Plexigum PQ 611 in acetone was injected with a syringe. Sticks of harvested dry Ferula comunis were used to fill gaps and cracks.64 The pith of Ferula is softer than balsa wood and was an excellent substitute for lost material. Ferula sticks, cut in the appropriate shape, were inserted and glued with a solution of Plexigum PQ 611 in acetone (40/ 60). To further strengthen bigger lacunae, it was possible to insert a few sticks up to 15 cm into the inner structure (Fig. 133, 134). Ferula pieces were also used to reconstruct the lost eye. They were inserted step by step into the lost area, rebuilding the missing volume. The eye could then be reconstructed by carving (Fig. 135). The index finger of the left hand had to be reattached. Plexigum PQ 611 in acetone (50/50) was used. The thorncrown was removed from the Christ’s head for consolidation and to have access to the head for treatment. Fragile thorns and original paper bridges were strengthened with Japanese paper and Klucel G dissolved in acetone/ethanol 70/30. The paper detached from the joints was refixed and the joints were reinforced using Plextol B 500 with addition of 8% Tylose in water (1V/1V). The arm joints had been weakened by insect attack and recent repairs. After consolidation and filling of voids with Ferula sticks, the arm hole in the shoulder and the corresponding arm dowels were strengthened with layers of Japanese paper glued with Klucel G in ethanol/acetone (75:25) at 8% (Fig.: 133, 134, 138). Woodworm holes and losses in the right arm, the beard, the perizonium, and other areas were filled to consolidate and to improve the aspect of
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