MCI Project Summaries 2008 - Smithsonian Institution

MCI 6073 WWI Balloon Basket
MCI Staff: Mel J. Wachowiak, Marion F. Mecklenburg, Alaina Schmisseur
Conservators at NASM requested condition examination and recommendations for
treatment of this balloon basket. The wicker basket is deformed and they hoped that it could be
reshaped and better supported. Once it is treated, it will be prepared for exhibit at the Udvar-
Hazy Center.
This large hot air balloon basket (63” long x 51” wide x 41” high) was reportedly used by
the Marine Corps in the period immediately following WWI. The basket is constructed of a
wooden frame, wicker material, canvas and metal grommet strips, rope, and metal tacks and
nails. It is in fairly stable physical condition, but there are three major condition issues pertinent
to the successful conservation of the object.
First, the entire basket is warped and is skewed to one side at an approximate angle of
100º. This warp is very established and would be difficult to correct without humidifying the
entire object. Humidification tests indicated that all of the wicker materials would potentially
react well to reshaping. In addition, the fragile structure of the basket does not lend itself to
reshaping by any method. Approximately 80% of the perimeter of the base is broken. Since the
bottom has lost structural integrity, wires and an armature could suspend a shallow tray of
acrylic.
Secondly, mold stains cover large portions of the surface. This is not currently active and
should not pose any additional problems if the relative humidity level is kept at approximately
35-50%. Tests showed that removal of the mold and mildew spotting could be achieved.
Finally, the basket is covered in a thick layer of dirt and accumulated dust from years of
storage. This significantly alters the visual appearance of the object and removal is desirable.
Recommendations were made for the treatment.
Note slumping/warp. At right, skew is corrected with image editing.
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