Date of Award
9-2024
Access Control
Open Access
Degree Name
Conservation of Art and Cultural Heritage and Conservation Science and Imaging , M.A./M.S.
Department
Art Conservation Department
Advisor
Theresa J. Smith
Department Home page
https://artconservation.buffalostate.edu
First Reader
Theresa J. Smith
Second Reader
Jiuan Jiuan Chen
Third Reader
Dr. Aaron Shugar
Fourth Reader
Dr. Rebecca Ploeger
Abstract
“Der Niagara”, an 1850’s etching of Niagara Falls on incredibly thin paper with an un-inked print address, was brought in by the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library (BECPL) for treatment in 2018 to the Garman Art Conservation Department. The print was adhered overall around the perimeter to an unstable strawboard support. Treatment was undertaken to remove the print from the strawboard, address discoloration, planar distortions, tears and losses, and rehouse the print in an appropriate enclosure. Research, visual analysis, and comparison to other copies was used to date the piece and establish it as a proof print. Multimodal imaging including RTI and reflected near-IR resolved information located in the un-inked print address including a graphite inscription and the identification of the print as a premium for the New-Yorker Criminal Zeitung. The original strawboard support was further analyzed using polarized light microscopy (PLM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), material suitability testing, and cold extraction pH testing to determine composition and the potential impact of contact with the art. Fiber analysis with PLM of the primary support and subsequent findings on the verso of the print was used to determine the fiber furnish and possible fillers. Both treatment and housing decisions were heavily influenced by the thinness of the sheet and resulted in many adjustments to the treatment plan based on the unique features of the paper.
Recommended Citation
Krchak, Jenni. 2024. Der Niagara: Research, Analysis, and Treatment of a 19th-century Etching on a Strawboard Support. M.A./M.S. thesis, SUNY Buffalo State University, Buffalo.
