HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT AND METHODOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF ANCIENT SCULPTURE RESTORATION IN UZBEKISTAN
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17605/Keywords:
Restoration, conservation, ancient sculpture, clay, Uzbekistan, cultural heritage, archaeology, cleaning, polymer consolidation, Toprak-kala, Dalvarzintepa.Abstract
This article presents a comprehensive study of the historical development, methodological frameworks, and practical approaches to the restoration of ancient monumental and small-scale sculptures in Uzbekistan. Drawing upon archival expedition reports, laboratory documentation, and published conservation case studies, the paper examines material-specific treatments for stone, unfired and fired clay, and ganch (gypsum) sculptures. Key case studies – Jarqutan, Toprak-kala, Dalvarzintepa (Boddhisattva), Karatepe and Kuyavkurgan – illustrate the evolution from early field conservation methods to contemporary laboratory-based protocols involving polymer consolidation, vacuum impregnation, 3D documentation, and ethical considerations such as minimal intervention and reversibility. Recommendations are provided for strengthening national capacities, establishing standardized protocols, and fostering international collaboration to ensure the sustainable preservation of Uzbekistan’s sculptural heritage.
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