Reflections of Mariah:
This week I was given the task,
along with my partner in crime/co-worker Alyssa, to give the upper half of the estate
a little TLC. As mundane as that may sound, you may be surprised to learn that
the ceilings are just as, if not more, intriguing than the grandeur of the main
level. Several feet suspended in the air (via scaffolding) I discovered a whole new world. Parkwood Estate
is known for its incredible architectural detail, and this week I was able to
confirm it extends literally from floor to ceiling. I was amazed by the intricacy
of every carving within the crown moldings and ceiling tiles. Little treasures
spied at every corner. Did you know, for example, that the pattern decorating the ceilings of
the Dining Room is in fact made of delicate little flowers?
Next time you find yourself at Parkwood Estate, I suggest look up! A new perspective of our adored mansion awaits you.
Additional Commentary from Samantha (Curator):
When we set out to do some of our ceiling work, and no coincidence that it paralleled reading week, I asked that the staff involved reflect on what their assigned chores were and write about the experience for me.
Next time you find yourself at Parkwood Estate, I suggest look up! A new perspective of our adored mansion awaits you.
Additional Commentary from Samantha (Curator):
When we set out to do some of our ceiling work, and no coincidence that it paralleled reading week, I asked that the staff involved reflect on what their assigned chores were and write about the experience for me.
I am sharing with you their thoughts and notes this week.
The work on the ceilings involved dry dusting, a mechanical process, to rid the ceilings of surface soils, cobwebs and cocoons. We used several materials, two kinds of brushes with sable bristles; a special conservation sponge for flat surface cleaning (not a magic eraser); Q-tips(TM) for bugs and cocoons.
A wet cleaning process is possible, but for that work or paint infills/touch ups a licenced conservator would be hired and is currently not needed or in the budget.
The work on the ceilings involved dry dusting, a mechanical process, to rid the ceilings of surface soils, cobwebs and cocoons. We used several materials, two kinds of brushes with sable bristles; a special conservation sponge for flat surface cleaning (not a magic eraser); Q-tips(TM) for bugs and cocoons.
A wet cleaning process is possible, but for that work or paint infills/touch ups a licenced conservator would be hired and is currently not needed or in the budget.
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