This African bowl had a large split almost all the way across its diameter.

The split had been repaired in the past with staples and adhesive.

I gave the bowl's owner options for treatment, and she decided on the minimalist approach.

I carefully removed the old, brittle adhesive and closed the split using sturgeon glue, a strong, flexible, and long lasting traditional material.

The owner chose not to have the crack filled, or to replace the missing decorative pins. This approach respects the age and history of the piece, but does not completely hide the damage.