The conservation of 16th century waterlogged oak, with intact bark, was invsetigated using unheated aqueous sucrose solutions. Concentration of impregnation solution was increased stepwise, and wood remained immersed long enough to ensure total penetration and even distribution of treatment solution. Best results (85% ASE, natural appearance) were achieved using a 5 month soak. Scanning electron microscopical studies revealed deformed vessels and fibers in non-treated and ineffectively treated samples. Sucrose treated samples were free from distortion. The article concludes that the sucrose method is an effective and cheap process. A short literature review is given. -- AATA