Microbial diversity in the surroundings and selected parts of the imperial throne of D. Pedro II - Characterization by classical microbiology and molecular biology, before and after restoration interventions

Abstract

The Museu Imperial has an important historical collection from the Portuguese Royal Family in Brazil. The throne represents the imperial power and is considered one of the most important objects in the museum; however, the piece has been facing for decades a gradual deterioration, mainly in its fabrics. With the growing motivation to preserve this property, conservation and restoration processes were conducted in all parts of the throne. As a part of this treatment, a microbiological survey was conducted in selected parts of the object and the surrounding environment where it was placed. This biodeterioration study, control and detection of microbial species indicated a very pertinent answer in relation to the place it was exposed, and the restoration process was performed in order to solve the most pronounced damages aiming to restore the original characteristics of the artefact. The study indicated a high diversity of fungi and bacteria. It was observed a marked decrease, before and after restoration, being observed the recurrence of the genera Absidia, Cladosporium and Epicoccum. This reduction was not so pronounced for bacteria, being also observed the recurrence of some bacterial groups after restoration (Microbacterium, Staphylococcus and Kocuria). In the atmosphere new fungal species were found after restoration, indicating a natural recontamination of the exhibition area.