Restoration of Historic Artifact
Bas-Relief Panel Conservation
Glen Ellen, CA

The cottage at Jack London State Park contains three bas-relief panels and a statuette, made of painted plaster depicting the tales from Arthurian legend. The panels were suffering from heavy dirt deposition such that colors were no longer discernable. In addition, the paint became unstable resulting in areas of paint loss, particularly on the statuette.

ARG Conservation Services conserved these beautiful panels, which once graced the home of one of America’s famous writers. The scope of work included cleaning of dirt, paint consolidation, and infill followed by application of a clear protective coating. Broken pieces were reattached and reinforced with fiberglass backing. Some areas of plaster loss due to chipping and nail holes were repaired as well, prior to paint infill.