Post by Kris on Jan 2, 2019 13:59:17 GMT
That’s very interesting regarding the deacidification Harriet. I knew that acid free materials were used for the storage and display of museum quality artifacts but not that a paper item itself could be improved to prevent its own self-decay. I suppose even the tape that attaches it presents a great problem as that rots. I’m surprised it is still holding now!
I have no doubt the new owner will have a plan for it and work with the right specialist but it is a tricky one isn’t it! Can you, in good faith, remove something that was (presumably) hand applied by Bukka himself without breaking a historical seal of sorts? Perhaps they will opt to treat it in situ and sympathetically add some sort of subtle lamination to it?
Many of the old instruments still played today are revered for their unique quality of sound. Luckily the sound of old Nationals can still be enjoyed today at a price that is not outrageous. While they are all steeped in history and likely have amazing back stories we can often only guess upon, the history of this instrument is extremely particular which obviously gives it a value way above and beyond your average vintage National. It likely still carry’s some degree of Bukka’s dna physically, and certainly his mojo! It would seem to me most suitable and respectful to keep it as a museum piece rather than further diluting that by keeping it as a played instrument, especially in light of the fragility of the set list.
It would be lovely if it ended up in a private collection that could still be viewed by the public one day.
I have no doubt the new owner will have a plan for it and work with the right specialist but it is a tricky one isn’t it! Can you, in good faith, remove something that was (presumably) hand applied by Bukka himself without breaking a historical seal of sorts? Perhaps they will opt to treat it in situ and sympathetically add some sort of subtle lamination to it?
Many of the old instruments still played today are revered for their unique quality of sound. Luckily the sound of old Nationals can still be enjoyed today at a price that is not outrageous. While they are all steeped in history and likely have amazing back stories we can often only guess upon, the history of this instrument is extremely particular which obviously gives it a value way above and beyond your average vintage National. It likely still carry’s some degree of Bukka’s dna physically, and certainly his mojo! It would seem to me most suitable and respectful to keep it as a museum piece rather than further diluting that by keeping it as a played instrument, especially in light of the fragility of the set list.
It would be lovely if it ended up in a private collection that could still be viewed by the public one day.
