Abstract

A 14th century portolan chart on skin was examined for treatment. Examination produced information regarding Portolan charts in general and aspects of deterioration due to ageing and older restoration methods. Treatment methods are reviewed and a treatment is described. Mistaken identity of the substrate was overcome and a disturbing and disfiguring damage described. An appropriate treatment was designed but had to be modified as the initial treatment progress was assessed. Given that only about 180 of these charts have survived to the present their manufacture, condition and preservation are of interest to scholars.