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How to Clean This WWI Poster?


Collector5516
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Collector5516

I recently purchased this WWI poster from eBay. It only cost me 20 bucks with shipping and I liked the graphics. As can be seen in the photos there are quite a few areas that are dirty/mildewed. What the best inexpensive way to clean this? The paper stock is somewhat thick, a bit thinner than most of the full size, typical WWI posters you usually see.

 

WWIPoster1.jpg

 

WWIPoster2.jpg

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I think what you have is what is known as "foxing". I think the only way to have it cleaned is to take it to a professional, otherwise you risk damaging the paper or the inks.

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  • 2 weeks later...

There is a gentleman that works for the Carlisle War College (USAHEC) museum that specializes in WWI and WWI posters. I believe his name is Charlie, (if you call or google USAHEC, they will know who you are referring to). He would be a wonderful resource for your project. Hope this helps.

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Collector5516
I just noticed that you are NYC - there is no shortage of paper conservators there.

 

Thanks for the recommendations guys. There are a ton of paper conservators in NYC but I know getting it professionally conserved would be too expensive. If it was a $400+ poster I'd look into it. As I said before I bought it because I liked the graphics and think it would look nice if framed. It only cost me 20.00. I was hoping there was a cheap "do it yourself" solution. :pinch:

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Another option would be to get a document cleaning pad and try it yourself....it's a soft pad with a talcum-type of mild powder abrasive....it gets surface dirt off....not sure if that would help or not.

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I would take it to a gallery (yes, as in art gallery) that specialized in advertising prints, they usually aren't too difficult to find since early 20th century posters are now being seen as the collectibles they are. They should be able to identify the artist for you as well.

 

They may be able to offer some advice on what can be done short of going the professional route.

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Collector5516
ckeck out these suggestions: http://www.nedcc.org/resources/leaflets/7C...aceCleaning.php

I've used these suggestions and has worked well... for me.

 

Thanks Teufel. Funny you referred me to this page as I had a large Adolf Hitler poster restored here six or seven years ago. It cost a pretty penny but they did a great job.

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Cobrahistorian

Your easiest bet is to get a $6 Gonzo "smoke off" sponge (links provided in the pinned section of "Preservation") and just give it a nice, light surface cleaning. Nothing fancy, no exorbitant costs.

 

Jon

Trained Paper Conservator

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