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Condition ReportThe condition of the Lithgow Mural Series painted during 1932-1946, by the Albany muralist, David C. Lithgow, as visually observed by Joyce Zucker, Painting Conservator, on March 7, 1990 and again on February 11, 2003 in the Dr. Theodore H. Fossieck Milne Alumni Room in the Milne Building.
Summary of ConditionThe David C. Lithgow murals are in fair condition. As noted previously, the paintings are mounted directly to the wall and each has a decorative border. They reflect changes in the artist's technique over a 14-year period. During the 13 years since the last exam, conditions have worsened. In some cases, paint that was flaking is now detached and losses are visible. The reading room tends to be overheated in the winter. Heating registers are directly under the paintings so that hot air rises and has direct contact with the murals. This has contributed to desiccation in the structure leading to more brittle paint films. The room is used for group meetings where large pieces of newsprint paper are either pinned into the murals or taped on the murals. There should be guidelines for use of this room that prevents such activity from occurringThe structure of the murals on the east wall differ dramatically from those on the south and west walls. The east wall paintings are more thickly painted and show strong craquelure patterns due to the use of animal glues in both the painting and the adhesives used to attach the murals to the wall. Cupping is noted along the areas of cracking. Paintings and the south and west walls are very thinly painted and appear to have more brittle structures overall. Seven paintings have cracks through their paint and canvas support, which correspond to architectural cracks in the plaster walls. Thirteen years ago I suggested that paintings on the east wall might require removal from the wall for maximum stability. I believe now that removal would not be required. To view a report on a specific painting, click on the title below.
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