I have received a fan made at the end of the 19th c. from tortoise shell and feathers for treatment. The decorative Feathers are glued to supporting feathers visible on the reverse. It seams that in intact areas, the feathers are glued over their whole surface. As there are many loose feathers I am seeking advice:

- has anybody already treated such a fan reattaching loose feathers?

- do you know what adhesive would have been used originally?

- what adhesive do you think would make sense to use now? Feathers are not damaged by water or solvents. Therefore any adhesive soluble in these could be used. Wheat starch (very thinned), Tylose very thinned? Acrylic (problem of tg as kept in a private home?)? Others?

Thanks for your input,

Karin