CALL FOR PAPERS
THE POTENTIAL OF X-RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGING IN THE CONSERVATION AND STUDY OF
TEXTILES

The X-radiographic imaging of textiles is one of the research areas being
studied under the auspices of the AHRB Research Centre for Textile
Conservation and Textile Studies at the Textile Conservation Centre,
University of Southampton.  This work is being led by Sonia O'Connor, a
Conservation Research Fellow of the AHRB RC TC & TS, who is based at the
University of Bradford, Department of Archaeological Sciences, with Mary
Brooks, Senior Lecturer, Textile Conservation Centre, University of
Southampton.

This project is exploring the potential of X-radiographic imaging
techniques in textile research and conservation. Aspects which are being
investigated include:

-       Complex  / layered structures
-       Manufacturing and construction techniques
-       Repairs and alterations
-       Dating evidence
-       Materials identification
-       Condition assessment
-       Patterns of degradation

One of the outcomes of this research will be an edited book which is
intended to be of benefit to conservators and curators as well as
communicating a greater understanding of textiles to the public.

We are inviting papers which explore both the technical aspects of
x-radiography itself as well as case studies where x-radiographs have added
either to the understanding of the textiles or aided in the conservation
decision-making process. Textiles are here being interpreted broadly to
include archaeological, historical and modern material, costume,
accessories, embroideries, upholstery, and three dimensional objects such as
mummies, dolls, toys and furnishings.

Please send initial indications of interest for papers, which may be either
short reviews or longer studies, to Sonia O'Connor by email or post by 10
May 2004.

Sonia O'Connor
Department of Archaeological Sciences
University of Bradford
Bradford
BD7 1DP

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