Japanese Paper in Paleontology: Non-Invasive and Reversible Strategies for Fossil Conservation

The use of Japanese paper in the conservation of three-dimensional objects has proven to be an effective, versatile, and reversible technique, and many conservators actively use it for consolidation, lamination, and other treatments. Paleontological material is no exception. In the following case study, the use of Tengujo Japanese paper (12 g/m²) is explored in the preparation and consolidation of fossils with loose sedimentary matrices, recovered from Quaternary marine deposits in the Antofagasta Region, Chile. This case study focuses on the consolidation and preparation of a specific specimen, a rib of Mysticeti indet. (specimen 050723-6), and demonstrates systematic applicability of this technique as a preventive and stabilizing strategy for fossils with friable sedimentary matrices, enabling temporary, non-invasive, reversible interventions using acrylic consolidants such as Paraloid B-72.