Preserving old leather

[TomBanwell]

I have my gggg grandfather's sword and scabbard that is now over 200 years old. I doubt that anyone has ever treated the leather scabbard, and it is very dry and cracking. What is the best way to preserve it and keep it from degrading any further?

Thanks,

[Myriam]

I don't know, but I'm sure someone here will know what to do. However, I would love seeing pictures of it, it it's possible. I love old pieces which have a story to tell.

[TwinOaks]

Wow, a bona fide Anti-Q!!!!

As far as preserving the leather, if it's already cracking, it may be too late. I'd think some oils would do well to remoisten it, but at that age, I'm really not sure. One thing you can do is make sure it stays away from harmful UV light as much as possible.

[Peter Ellis]

I have my gggg grandfather's sword and scabbard that is now over 200 years old. I doubt that anyone has ever treated the leather scabbard, and it is very dry and cracking. What is the best way to preserve it and keep it from degrading any further?

Thanks,

If you do a search with google for conservator and leather you'll find many views on what to do and how.

[TomBanwell]

I don't know, but I'm sure someone here will know what to do. However, I would love seeing pictures of it, it it's possible. I love old pieces which have a story to tell.

Here is a picture of the sword (the top one). It belonged to Vice Admiral William Parker of the British Royal Navy who was awarded a baronetcy for his role in fighting against the Spanish (who were allied with Napoleon).

[jammon]

That is super cool! Deffinetly worth preserving if possible. Wish I had tips for you, let us know what you come up with.

[Myriam]

Thanks for the picture, Tom. It really looks cool. I like old weapons, not only were they effective, they were also works of art.

[Denise]

For something of that age and value - sentimental if nothing else - I wonder about contacting a museum and seeing what they recommend. I am sure there is a whole science devoted to restoring and caring for artifacts and they would probably have solid information so you wouldn't risk inadvertently harming your sword and scabbard. Just a thought.

[Hedge]

You might try contacting a museum and talk to the curator. They have people who preserve things for a living.

[JLD]

Hi

If you contact a museum they can tell you what they use. They restore "old" things for display and can probably advise you of the best method.

Johanne