Russian Muzzleloader vs Lynx Preservation

For this post, I will use the Russian muzzleloader and the lynx as examples of how one should preserve these artifacts before it deteriorates. There are several considerations that need to be taken into account. These two objects require different preservation methods due to their unique composition and the different agents of deterioration that can affect them.

The Russian muzzleloader is probably either made of metal, wood, or possibly leather. Metal can corrode over time, while wood can warp, crack, or rot. Leather can dry out and become brittle. The most significant agents of deterioration for this object are moisture, temperature fluctuations, and light exposure.

Here are the following steps that can be taken to preserve the Russian muzzleloader:

– Climate control: Ensure that the storage environment is at a consistent temperature and humidity level. This can be achieved by using a dehumidifier or air conditioning system.

– Protective casing: The object can be placed in a protective casing, such as a glass or acrylic display case, to protect it from dust and light exposure.

– Cleaning: The object should be cleaned regularly to remove dust and prevent dirt buildup. Use a soft brush to clean the wood and a dry cloth to wipe the metal parts.

– Chemical treatment: A protective coating can be applied to the metal parts to prevent corrosion. Be sure to use a product that is safe for historical artifacts and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

However, the lynx is made of organic material and requires different preservation methods. Organic material, such as an animal, can decay over time. The important agents of deterioration for this object are pests, light exposure, and temperature fluctuations.

Here are the following steps that can be taken to protect organic materials such as lynx:

– Pest control: Store the lynx in a sealed container with mothballs or cedar chips to repel insects and other pests.

– Protective casing: The lynx can be placed in a protective casing, such as a glass or acrylic display case, to protect it from dust and light exposure.

– Cleaning: The fur should be brushed regularly to remove dust and prevent dirt buildup. Use a soft-bristled brush and be careful not to damage the fur.

– Chemical treatment: A preservative can be applied to the fur and skin to prevent decay. Be sure to use a product that is safe for animal specimens and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

As you can see, these two artifacts have to be treated with different care for preservation. In my opinion, I believe that the lynx is probably the hardest to preserve since it is of organic/biological origins than a Russian muzzleloader which consists of metal, wood, and leather. Treating the fur of a lynx or any other animal fur has gone through constant care and management, whereas wood/metal/leather isn’t that hard to manage (depending on what room temperature and environment it’s in). Overall, I thought this exercise in exploring different preservations of different types of artifacts was very interesting and fun!

Question: If you could only preserve three historical or cultural artifacts for future generations, which ones would you choose and why?