This Victorian-era wallpaper was found hiding behind the sheetrock that was installed over it decades ago.
Note the application of mica (isinglass) particles, creating a reflective surface as part of the pattern. This treatment on wallpaper dates to the mid-18th century and continued into the late 19th century when this paper was made. Before the introduction of electric lighting, reflective surfaces were popular for the additional light they provided to rooms lit by candles, oil lamps, or gas.
Surviving historic wallpaper is rarely in great condition but can be reproduced. Traditionally, the options for repro wallpaper have been wood-block printing and screen printing – both labor-intensive and expensive. Digital printing has added a third option that can be less expensive, depending on the degree of digital restoration needed to prepare the design for printing.
All three methods are explored and shown in “Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners.”
Signed and personalized copies of the award-winning and bestselling 720-page hardcover book are available from the author in our shop, YourHistoricHouse.com/shop/.
Our shop also carries other authors’ select preservation and restoration titles, including “A Field Guide to American Houses” by Virginia McAlester. Save on cost and shipping with our multi-book combo packs!
© Scott T. Hanson 2023
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