Staff members have been very active in the museum galleries for the past month.  One of the cases that was due for its regular rotation is the hanging scroll case in Gallery 138.  We recently installed a pair of Japanese scrolls that illustrate the Taketori Monogatari (Tale of the Bamboo Cutter).  A recent acquisition, the pair is making its debut in the gallery.  Before hanging, the paper conservator did some minor grime removal from the silk with polyurethane foam sponges lightly rubbed across the surface.

The smooth surface of the foam cannot snag the silk threads, and the light touch allows for grime to be picked up without breaking the fibers.  The hanging cords and hardware were checked to confirm that they are secure.  During your next visit to the museum, see what the Bamboo Cutter is gazing at.  The pair of scrolls is a generous gift of the Cincinnati Asian Art Society in memory of long-time museum supporter and Asian Art Society member Faith Golder.