Study on the Conservation and Restoration of Localized Deterioration in Qianlong’s West Lake Handscroll

Abstract

Qianlong’s West Lake Handscroll is a Qing dynasty court painting with significant artistic value and importance for the study of traditional mounting techniques. During long-term storage and use, localized deterioration occurred in the mounting structure, particularly in the brocade roller cover, mounting silk borders, and edge sections, including delamination, creasing, blistering, abrasion, and tearing, which affected the structural stability and exhibition safety of the artifact. Based on conservation and restoration practice, this study analyzes the characteristics, causes, and treatment methods of these deteriorations.The restoration process followed the principles of “minimal intervention” and “retaining the original appearance,” while preserving the original mounting structure as much as possible. Traditional restoration techniques, including starch-paste readhesion, reinforcement with xuan paper strips, and local flattening treatment, were employed to address issues such as blistering of the roller cover, delamination of mounting silk borders, and fold-related tears. After restoration, the structural stability of the artifact was significantly improved. The roller cover and mounting borders regained their flatness, while localized delamination and tears were effectively stabilized, allowing the handscroll to meet the requirements for safe preservation and exhibition.The study suggests that localized conservation treatment not only effectively prolongs the preservation life of handscroll paintings, but also contributes to a deeper understanding of the structural characteristics and material technologies of traditional imperial mounting techniques. This case study may provide practical reference for the conservation and restoration of similar mounted painting artifacts.