The Challenge
- To preserve the rich coloring of the historic map and also protect the fragile paper support from further darkening and embrittlement.
- Given the size of the map, a lightweight, clear, and shatter-resistant protective layer is ideal for both storage and exhibition.
The Solution
Optium Museum Acrylic®
99% UV blocking
Protects the map from the most damaging light wavelengths, helping prevent fading and degradation.
Acrylic is half the weight of glass and shatter resistant
Safeguards against injury and damage to the map and visitors.
Anti-static protection exceeds that of glass
Immediately eliminates static charge. Makes for safer, easier framing and less cleaning.
Abrasion resistant
A durable hard coat protects against scratches from cleaning and general exposure to the public.
Anti-reflective
Allows viewers to see the map without distracting reflections.
The Work
Diego Conde’s map is particular in its qualities because of its age and extensive hand-coloring, and the accurate depiction of Mexico City and its environs in the late 18th C. It is baroque in embellishment, with a decorative border and vignettes from city life that illuminate the lower edge. One-third of the entire map consists of a chart or legend of everything depicted in the city; roads, churches, parks, public buildings, cemeteries, etc., all rendered in a small fine Italic typeface. Even in the fields and outer farms, each tiny tree is rendered with a shadow.
More Info
- Read our QuickVue article on the map’s conservation treatment by Zukor Art Conservation.
- For details on the map and a high resolution image, visit here.