Kaskara

The Kaskara is a traditional Sudanese sword with a decorative silver hilt. This particular example, from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is being considered for display. While in overall good condition, the curator wanted to have a higher contrast between the raised silver designs and the background to ensure that it would be visible in the galleries. However, he did not want the silver to become overly bright. The blade of the sword had been heavily used and showed a fair amount of damage so aesthetically, he wanted the silver to also have an aged quality.

The section on the grip I polished with calcium carbonate in isopropyl alcohol. In order to provide as much contrast as possible without over-polishing, it was crucial not to touch the background. This was done by using very small cotton swabs to apply the calcium carbonate solution. The pommel has shallower incised designs and was cleaned using a white artist's eraser.

The silver was coated in two layers of Agateen cellulose acetate lacquer applied as a spray. The blade was also cleaned and then hot waxed.

I also used this object to practice mount-making. In the Met’s Arms and Armor Department, the conservators make the majority of the mounts. To keep my first mount relatively simple, I created a vertical wall-mount. This was made out of steel and silver solder, with a black felt lining.