A study of historical reverse glass decorations used on shop fronts in Malta and proposals for their conservation

Abstract

This study concerns reverse glass decorative signs found in Malta. Reverse glass decorative signs which are composed of paint, paint and silver coloured metal foil, paint and gold leaf or gold-coloured leaf/foil will be discussed. The historical signs were mainly utilised around the 1920s and 1930s. The study contains a literature review having the technique and stratigraphy of the possible materials used to produce reverse glass decoration. The identification of the local manufacturing technique/s and possible materials used to produce these signs were included. This has been done by gaining information from literature sources and by conducting interviews with shop owners, craftsmen and restorers. The identification of the various deterioration processes was looked into. The visual investigation of the deterioration phenomena was carried out by observing various signs around Malta. A catalogue with a condition assessment of such signs and a visual glossary of the state of preservation has been compiled to indicate the common deterioration phenomena. Preventive and active conservation have also been looked into and basic recommendations or procedures to safeguard such artefacts have been defined. Preventive conservation includes the sealing of the framing system, sheltering, glazing, transportation and handling. Recommendations covering the guidelines regarding maintenance and inspection have also been tackled. Furthermore, active conservation, comprising the cleaning method, adhesion of glass/paint and consolidation treatments and integrations has been discussed. The functional and aesthetical value of such signs and the concept of respecting the original materials form an important part of the conservation process.