Findings

As expected, the supposed 'original' structure shows the original embedding of the block in a sand/wax matrix covered with a thin layer of plaster and several layers of paint. This is consistent with other specimens mounted in wooden cases of the same time and location. In areas where the specimen had been treated, the various specimen blocks were surrounded with Plaster of Paris, which had also been reinforced with scrim, and had been painted with several layers of paint. This confirms the information on the laboratory treatment card.

With regard to the individual elements as described in the pencil drawing from the previous treatment, the joins also appear to correspond. As expected, this suggests that the specimen components were correctly replaced after the treatment. However, there was no evidence to suggest that the specimen had been tampered with.

Further investigations

In an attempt to understand the treatment history further, a polished section was made from both areas under investigation. Preliminary study under an optical microscope shows that the two areas are identical in construction, i.e. the sand/wax filler with several paint layers. Further analysis will be undertaken over the next few months to understand the structuring in the layers. This may enable us to date the conservation work. Plaster casts taken from the mould of the paddle will be cut into the individual bone elements.

In addition, further 'core' samples will be taken in the areas of the main body and where the snout originally lay to understand the nature of the reconstruction.