IDENTIFICATION
Catalog number: SWRO 826
Object: Lamp, Electric
Material: Glass--Metal
Accession number: SWRO-00158
Center Accession number: WACC-02150
Treatment performed by: Ali Wysopal, conservation intern, under the supervision of Megan Narvey, conservator
Exam Date: 1/4/2019
Treatment Report: 5/7/2019
Measurements: L. 94.5 cm W. 94.5 cm H. 62 cm
Image courtesy of the Western Archeological and Conservation Center
DESCRIPTION: As stated in the ICMS record: "REPRODUCTION PUNCHED TINNED STEEL HANGING LAMP OR CHANDELIER MADE IN 2012 BY FRED RAY LOPEZ OF SPANISH COLONIAL TINWORKS, SANTA FE FOR OSFT. THREE RINGS OF INCREASING SIZE LIE BENEATH THE DECORATED CONE-SHAPED COVER. 12 SMALL LIGHTS RESEMBLING CANDLES ARRANGED AROUND THE CENTRAL RINGS. RING ON TOP OF CONE ATTACHED TO CHAIN AND ELECTRIC WIRE. LAMP MADE TO REPLACE SWRO 798 WHICH IS IN STORAGE AT WACC."
This object is a circular chandelier consisting of 4 discs of decreasing circumference stacked on top of each other with a conical top and 12 arms radiating from the bottom 2 discs. Each arm is approximately 22 cm in length and consist of a metal tube, decorative metal band, and light fixture made of a thin metal base with crimped edges and an electrical socket wrapped in cardboard and metal. A large portion of the object's surface has been decorated using a circular punch. An upright ring decoration with a cross on either side is attached to the top via a 14 cm bolt that tuns vertically through the center of the element and is secured with additional hardware. There is a chain that runs from the top of the decorative circle and extends towards a small metal disc used to mount the chandelier to the ceiling. The interior of the chandelier contains a cone pointing upwards with a second smaller cone dangling from a chain and additional structural elements. There is a coiled scroll decoration along the base of the larger cone. A cord containing coated electrical wires and a single uncoated copper wire extend from the top of the chain, through the top of the chandelier, and on through the hollow tubes of each arm.
Image courtesy of the Western Archeological and Conservation Center
Image courtesy of the Western Archeological and Conservation Center
CONDITION: There is loose dust and dirt across the object’s surface, with some areas of iron corrosion, water marks, and aqueous corrosion. The exterior surface shows signs of abrasions, possibly from previous cleaning efforts, with additional scratches from use or previous handling. Black accretions can be seen on soldered areas and could be due to poorly cleaned flux residue. Some dirt and insect bodies can be seen on the interior. Overall, the object’s construction is stable with solid solder joints, with exception of the top link of the chain which is showing signs of corrosion and has a failed joint.
TREATMENT PROCEDURE:
1. The object was cleaned overall with a soft brush and vacuum.
2. Dirt, greasy dust, and an aged waxy coating were removed from the exterior metal surface with acetone applied by cotton swab.
3. The catalog tag removed and reattached in the same location using stainless-steel wire.
4. A coating of Butcher's wax was applied to the metal and then buffed.
Image courtesy of the Western Archeological and Conservation Center
Image courtesy of the Western Archeological and Conservation Center
Image courtesy of the Western Archeological and Conservation Center
Date of completion of treatment: 5/7/2019