Eco-Friendly Materials in the Conservation of Cultural Heritage:A Case Study on "The Chair of The Chalice Icons " at the Virgin Mary Church in Haret Zuwaila, Egypt

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Coptic Paintings Conservation Department at the Monasteries and Churches in Haret Zuwaila Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Cairo, Egypt

2 Conservation Department, Faculty of Archaeology, Fayoum University, Egypt

3 Conservation Department, Faculty of Archaeology, Cairo University, Egypt

10.21608/ijecth.2025.445526

Abstract

Eco-friendly green materials have emerged as one of the most advanced scientific approaches in the field of cultural heritage restoration and conservation, due to their significant role in supporting the goals of the 2030 Sustainable Development Strategy. This strategy emphasizes environmental protection and the reduction of carbon footprint across various sectors, including the heritage sector. In this context, it has become essential to replace traditional chemical solvents with safer, environmentally friendly alternatives — both to protect the health of conservators and to preserve the integrity of the artifacts, especially by avoiding harmful chemical reactions that may negatively affect the original materials.
Accordingly, this study explores the application of green solvents such as Ethyl Lactate and Dimethyl Carbonate in the cleaning of the painted layer of the icons of the "Chair of the Chalice", which date back to the 19th century and were painted by the painter Anastasi Al-Roumi. These icons are currently preserved in the Church of the Virgin Mary in Haret Zuweila, one of the most significant stops along the Holy Family Route in Egypt. This association lends the study profound cultural, religious, and historical importance.

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