Rebecca Gridley and Karen Stamm
Abstract
This article describes the use of transparent molds to cast epoxy resin fills for glass objects. Transparent molds provide complete visibility and thus a high level of control during the casting process, allowing the conservator to monitor and address internal flaws that may develop. The conservation treatment of two 16th-century Austrian façon de Venise vessels in The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection are presented as case studies. These treatments employed different mold-making techniques and materials to fabricate large replacement pieces: one used a clear silicone rubber mold and the other a vacuum-formed polyvinylchloride foil mold. In each case, the epoxy fills were cast separately from the object to minimize handling or protect sensitive surface decorations. This article summarizes the treatment processes and outlines the advantages and drawbacks of each mold-making material discussed.