The objects conservator is currently working on this bronze vase by Maria Longworth Nichols Storer, circa 1897-1900. Storer is well known for founding the Rookwood Pottery Company, but she also experimented with metals and the CAM has a large collection of these pieces. This particular vase has a beautiful floral and fish design with jewels set into the eyes of the fish and pearls at the base. Bright blue-ish green corrosion products have obscure the design.The conservator is carefully removing all of this corrosion to prevent deterioration and loss to the metal surface. If allowed to continue the corrosion can ‘eat’ away the metal, causing loss of surface details. After the corrosion is removed, the surface will be sealed to prevent moisture from activating corrosion in the future. Once conservation is finished this vase will be back on display in Gallery 113.

Maria Longworth Nicholas Storer (American, b. 1849, d. 1932); Vase, 1897-1900; metal; Gift of Maria Longworth Storer; 1903.390