Re: cleaning stereo views

["The Photo-3D List" <photo-3d@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

OK, here's a real collecting question: is it possible to clean vintage
stereo

views?

There are various forms of dirt--the slow, sedimentary dust of time; ink and

pencil marks; nameless sticky black blobs.



Tom Johnstone, near Edinburgh, Scotland.  

Hi Tom,
    I believe it's possible--with care--to improve viewability on many views.
For the dust of time, a simple (and very gentle) wipe with a soft cloth or a
feather duster can do wonders. It helps remove dust and grit, and is a good
first step. I think it should always be done before you place the view in an
archival protector. 
   If soil remains and you want to attempt to remove it: another soft cloth
just slightly dampened (not wet) and a very light wipe will often remove the
stickier type of soil. For wetting solution, I've used plain water and
sometimes water with a just drop or two of ammonia--not even enough that you
can smell it. (I've also used my saliva because it's so convenient, but
that's too yech to admit.) Take care not to get the image wet--it might
bubble or come loose from the card. If you apply too much pressure you will
remove the photograph along with the soil! I have _rubbed_soil away with a
damp cloth, but it is very risky behavior. At the least, it often removes any
gloss from the photo.
    For pencil marks, a light rubbing with art gum often does the trick. A
regular pencil eraser seems too abrasive.
    Someone mentioned that larger globs of foreign material can often be
scraped off gently with a fingernail.
    As far as I know, there is no low-tech way to remove water stains, ink,
or foxing. I have destroyed several views in testing my methods. My
philosophy now is that if the view has much value above minimal, you're
taking a big chance if you attempt to clean it--they are just too fragile;
any cleaning beyond gently brushing off loose soil and grit can ruin the view
rather than improve it. Take some of your junk/garbage views and experiment!
    Different subject: Does Edinburgh look today anything like it did in the
1860s? I've only seen the city in GW Wilson's great stereographs. Would I
recognize it today?
best wishes,
Andy B
Winter Park, FL


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