Incisserade

Incisserade is a term used in conservation and related fields to describe a controlled incision-based technique for exposing underlying layers of a multi-layer object, such as a painting, manuscript, or textile, without complete disassembly. The word derives from Latin incīdere, "to cut into," and a suffix -ade that marks a procedural process. In practice, incisserade involves shallow, precisely placed cuts designed to separate or reveal interfaces between layers while preserving most of the original material. The technique is described as both a diagnostic and a preparatory measure within a broader conservation workflow.

Applications include stratigraphic analysis of layered media, testing of adhesives, assessment of tearing or cracking, and guided cleaning. Conservators plan incision patterns—linear, grid, or targeted shapes—designed to minimize material loss and to document each incision with photographs and notes. Instruments range from micro-scalpels to depth-calibrated drills or laser-assisted devices, with penetration depths chosen to respect the material's tolerances. After incisions, exposed interfaces are stabilized using reversible consolidants to prevent delamination.

Limitations and ethics: Incisserade carries risk of damage if misapplied. It is not universally accepted and is subject to institutional policy and legal considerations. The technique requires specialized training, careful risk assessment, and adherence to professional ethical standards. It is typically reserved for cases where non-invasive methods fail to yield essential information or when later conservation requires direct access to interfaces.

Origin and usage: The term arose in late 20th-century conservation literature and has since appeared in workshop materials and regional guidelines. Practices vary between institutions, with no single standard protocol.