MCI Project Summaries 2008 - Smithsonian Institution

MCI 6174.10 Anchorage Project: Tsimshian Wood Dish
MCI Staff: Ron H. Cunningham
Radiography was requested to help ascertain the method and extent of any repairs made
to the dish. The grain pattern in the dish indicates that it has been carved from one piece of
wood. A series of six computed radiographs were taken of the wooden bowl. Radiography of the
carved, painted dish indicates the presence of one clear attempt at repair in an area of knot
formation. A wire nail or brad approximately ½” in length was located within an area of
fragmenting knotted wood. Its position suggests that a hole may have been drilled first and the
brad inserted for reinforcement and filled in. The possible application of the area with glue was
not determined.
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