This French hand-block-printed wallpaper from 1852 remains in place in the front hall of Whitten House.
Surviving wallpapers of the 19th century or earlier are relatively rare and should be considered significant character-defining features where they still exist. Earlier papers may be in better condition than later due to the change from making paper from rags to making it from wood pulp in the mid-19th century. Wood pulp paper contains acids that will cause the paper to brown and become brittle over time, rag paper does not have these acids.
Professional conservators can assess and assist with determining what kind of paper you’re dealing with and suggest appropriate methods for any cleaning or conservation work needed. Depending on the condition of the paper, reproduction is sometimes the best approach to restoring the historic appearance of the paper. The three principal methods of reproducing historic wall and ceiling papers, wood block printing, silk screen printing, and digital printing are explored in Chapter 18 of Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners.
The 720-page hardcover book is available online and in bookstores nationwide. Signed copies can be ordered directly from the author on this site.
If your local bookstore doesn’t carry the book, please ask them to contact their rep at W.W. Norton to order it.
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