An elephant task—conservation of elephant remains from Revadim Quarry, Israel

Abstract

Abstract Large bones present their own conservation problems. Three fossil elephant scapulae, received in different states of preservation, demonstrated the difficulties faced by a conservator on a low budget. Considerations included the state of preservation and the need to prepare the objects for research rather than display. Since the elephant finds were part of a taphonomic research project, preserving the bone surfaces was of supreme importance. Fill materials had to be light because of the need for researchers to handle the objects post-conservation. Following studies of other cases of gap-filling, both in modern and ancient bones, and considering the restrictions and particular requirements of the materials available, a system was devised consisting of Japanese tissue impregnated with Paraloid B-72 in acetone applied in layers over a scaffolding of rods, with a final layer of microcrystalline wax then being applied. The resultant fill was lightweight, reversible, relatively cheap, and unobtrusive t...