Uncovering the Past at Carnegie Public Library April 9, 2008
Posted by cplwcho in Construction.trackback
A treasure that has been hidden for more than seventy years will soon be revealed at the Carnegie Public Library.
The domed ceiling on the second floor contains twelve leaded art glass panels, originally crafted and installed in 1903. The jewel-colored glass has been covered by layers of paint on one side and grime and dust on the other but will be restored to its full beauty by Whitney Stained Glass Studio of Cleveland, Ohio.
The panels are composed of repeating geometric patterns in a scalloped design. The restoration will consist of a special soaking bath to loosen the paint and remove the dirt. The panels will then be carefully disassembled, thoroughly cleaned and reassembled with new lead and replaced in the domed ceiling.
The process is expected to take four weeks. Hints of the colors in the panels can be seen through the dirt. Royal blue, emerald green and hues of rich amber will emerge as the cleaning takes place..
According to Library Director Susan McDaniel, library records indicate that the art glass may have first been painted over in the 1930s when the Civilian Conservation Corp repainted the library due to the collection of dirt and dust that blocked the light and rendered the once lovely glass, an unattractive eyesore.
For the first time in many years the public will be able to view the intricate craftsmanship of the art glass panels which are illuminated by a skylight in the roof. The second floor is scheduled to reopen the first week of June 2008.
That is a wonderful and beautiful project you are doing. I love art and can’t wait to see the dome ceiling fully restored. It made me very happy to know that we have something so lovely in our own town and in our own library! Thank you for restoring such a lovely piece of art!