Preserving powder hornes

[Chuck Yoder]

I hope this isn't repeating what has been done hundreds of times earlier. I am new to this forum so please excuse me if I am boreing you.

My question is this. What can be done to preserve powder hornes from getting eaten up by bugs. And once they are chewed up can they be repaired. I have several with chew marks on them and one antique horn that has holes bored completely through the sides. Thanks for any help you can give me.

 

[Gary]

Today's repairs are tomorrow's hack jobs. Most museums strive for conservation over restoration. This is because some past restorations have done more harm than good. While you could plug up the hole, the item you use will probably be affected differently by changes in the climate (temperature, humidity and even lighting) and the once hidden repair will stand out like a sore thumb (and may even cause more damage).

Preservation? Coat the horn (metal, horn & wood) with Rennaisance Wax. You can buy it from any WoodCraft Store. Coat and handle as little as possible. Keep it in a climate controlled, pest free environment. Keep it from any bright lights or exposure as light can fade any scrimshaw or the UV may harm the horn.

 

[dlemaster]

All the horn collectors I know recommended putting in a few flakes of moth crystals or crushed moth balls in the inside of the horn. This is what I have done with a couple of original horns I own and I have had no trouble at all and I have had them for 25 years or more.
Hope this helps.

Regards, Dave