Wood carving holds deep cultural significance among Taiwanese Indigenous communities, embodying craftsmanship, cultural memory, and Indigenous knowledge rooted in everyday life. Many carved objects were functional rather than purely aesthetic, making them vulnerable to biological deterioration, especially termite infestation, since these utilitarian chairs were typically stored in open spaces due to their everyday use.

This paper presents a conservation case study of a termite-damaged wooden chair by a renowned Indigenous wood carving master. While the exterior carving remained intact, X-ray examination revealed extensive internal damage within the legs, critically compromising structural stability and safety.

Guided by the chair’s potential for future exhibition and educational use, a differentiated conservation strategy was adopted. Non-structural areas were stabilized with conservation adhesives, while structurally critical legs were treated through a reversible intervention. Deteriorated internal wood was carefully removed, preserving the original carved outer shell. A detachable internal support, fabricated from solid wood with traditional mortise-and-tenon joints, was inserted without permanent adhesion.

This approach restores structural functionality and allows disassembly for inspection, exhibition, and educational purposes. By making termite damage visible, biological deterioration becomes an interpretive resource. It highlights material authenticity and Indigenous craftsmanship, showing how structural stabilization and heritage interpretation can reinforce each other.

Authors:
Wan-yun Yang, Cheng Shiu University, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Wan-yun YANG is an oil painting and wooden object conservator based in Taiwan. She is currently affiliated with the Conservation and Research Center at Cheng Shiu University.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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