In the hands of Rob Kleeman, Senior Conservator of Furniture, a delicate, cherished, and unusual musical birdcage found new life through careful conservation. Housed within a gold-painted wooden base adorned with intricate brass fittings, this mechanical musical bird arrived with tales of fond memories and decades of wear.
Musical Birdcage, before treatment
Originally belonging to the godmother of a young boy, the birdcage was a centerpiece of fascination during visits to her New York City apartment. Purchased, perhaps, from the renowned Rita Ford Music Box boutique, known for its timeless treasures, the birdcage made its way to the godson's home years later, surviving the travel wear and the passage of time. The emotional bond between the godson and his godmother, and the memories associated with the birdcage, added a layer of significance to its journey.
Musical Birdcage, before treatment
Upon receipt at The Center, the birdcage displayed signs of age—minor damage to the gilded base and corrosion on brass fittings. The delicate faux fruit beneath the perch had flaking paint and was highly friable. Despite these condition issues, the automatic mechanism continued to perform its enchanting melody, a testament to its enduring craftsmanship.
Musical Birdcage, during treatment
Treatment began with thorough documentation, capturing the birdcage's condition before and after treatment. Rob started the treatment process by thoroughly cleaning to remove oils, waxes, and accumulated debris. "The piece was disassembled to allow for cleaning. The feathers and foliage were dry cleaned with brushes and vacuumed as warranted." This cleaning revealed the underlying beauty of the wooden base and intricate brass components.
Musical Birdcage, during treatment, detail
Attention then turned to stabilization—securing loose and friable surfaces, consolidating delicate elements like the faux fruit, and inpainting where the paint had flaked away. "The delaminating berries we consolidated and inpainted, the foliage was stabilized and lightly re-saturated." The gilded base underwent consolidation to stabilize its gesso layer, followed by filling and repair of minor losses, ensuring structural integrity while preserving its aesthetic charm.
Musical Birdcage, during treatment, detail
Brass fittings, exhibiting mild corrosion, underwent careful removal of oxidation and polishing to revive their original luster, highlighting intricate details that had dulled over time. A protective coat of paste wax was applied, safeguarding the restored surfaces for years to come while enhancing their visual appeal.
Musical Birdcage, after treatment
Each step of this conservation treatment aimed not only to stabilize the delicate materials of this unusual musical birdcage but also to preserve the emotional connection and memories between a godmother and godson intertwined with this cherished heirloom. The conservation journey of this musical birdcage stands as a testament to the artistry and dedication of conservators like Rob Kleeman, ensuring that treasures from the past continue to delight and inspire future generations.
Musical Birdcage, during treatment, detail
