Poinsettias on the spiral stair at Whitten House create a festive look for the season with the hand block-printed French Gothic Revival wallpaper hung in 1852.
Surviving 19th century or earlier wallpapers 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.”
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 select preservation and restoration titles by other authors. Save on cost and shipping with our multi-book combo packs!
© Scott T. Hanson 2023
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