Of Microbes and Art

Microbial defacement and degradation of artistic or historic artifacts is a worldwide problem affecting all countries regardless of their history, geographical location, or economic conditions. This is the first comprehensive study of the role of microbial colonization on the degradation of different cultural artifacts (from buildings to books, wall paintings, textiles, sculptures and glass) and of the investigations into the compounds utilized to control microbial invasion. The book focuses on three main areas: the identification of the microorganisms which cause structural damage; methods to reduce or prevent microbial colonization and damage; and the use of microorganisms for the protection and bioremediation of cultural artifacts.

Proceedings of the International Conference on Microbiology and Conservation, held June 17-19, 1999, in Florence, Italy

Contributors. Preface. Part 1: Ecology of microbial communities developing on art works. Recent advances in the molecular biology and ecophysiology of meristematic stone-inhabiting fungi; C. Urzì, et al. Molecular tools applied to the study of deteriorated artworks; D. Daffonchio, et al. Molecular approaches for the assessment of microbial deterioration of objects of art; S. Rölleke, et al. Comparative studies of microbial communities on stone monuments in temperate and semi-arid climates; E. May, et al. Occurrence and fluctuation in photosynthetic biocoenoses dwelling on stone monuments; L. Tomaselli, et al. Microbial communities in salt efflorescences; L. Laiz, et al. Characterisation of endolithic communities of stone monuments and natural outcrops; O. Salvadori. Part 2: Biosusceptibility of organic and inorganic constituents. Patina; T. Dornieden, et al. A laboratory investigation of the microbial degradation of cultural heritage; A. Seves, et al. Fungal fox spots and others; M.-L.E. Florian. Polymers and resins as food for microbes; R.J. Koestler. Biodegradability of products used in monuments' conservation; P. Tiano, et al. Part 3: Control and utilization of microorganisms. Integrated concepts for the protection of cultural artifacts against biodeterioration; T. Warscheid. Bacterial carbonatogenesis and applications to preservation and restoration of historic property; S. Castanier, et al. Bacterial genes involved in calcite crystal precipitation; B. Perito, et al. Bioremediation of cultural heritage: removal of sulphates, nitrates and organic substances; G. Ranalli, et al. Index.