Condition of the Mural Paintings of the South Wall of Idout Tomb and Suggested Treatment (Investigation Report)

The present work presents a preliminary investigation about the condition of the South Wall at the burial chamber of ldout tomb, Saqqara area. The South Wall paintings are rather preserved in a stable condition, in comparison with those of the North, West and East Walls. Mineralogical and petrographical studies were carried out to evaluate the condition of the bedrock (support) in this part of the burial chamber. In addition, selected materials (Nanorestore, Seven Chemical Parma Guard NO. 5S and Silicon Wacker Steinfestiger OH KSE 300) were applied to observe and to check their influence as consolidants on painted plaster and bedrock. The studies have revealed that the bedrock of the South Wall was formed mainly of calcite and quartz. Petrographically it was formed of micrite (lime-mudstone) that recrystallized to form microsparite, and it was showed that silica replaced the allochems and/or filled voids and pores to help strengthening the bedrock at that part. Preliminary results of the tested materials have indicated that Wackar Steinfestiger OH KSE 300 could be used as consolidant. However, further investigation is still needed. The work is now in progress.