5 CONSERVATION TREATMENT OF THOMAS DEWING, AMERICA RECEIVING NINE MUSES

THE EXTENSIVE tests we conducted confirm the presence of a small amount of beeswax in the green layer. GLC analysis indicates that some of this wax was removed by cleaning tests of the varnish layer with cotton swabs. Cleaning tests with mild solvents also demonstrated a degree of blanching. This information was sufficient to warrant a decision not to remove the varnish. The varnish had been applied by brush, and uneven drip spots are noticeable on the green background. It was decided to reduce these uneven spots by applying solvent with a laboratory cleaning tissue (Kimwipe). A small amount of solvent was brushed on the raised resin areas with a tissue, which was lifted off immediately after initial contact. This varnish reduction technique was used quite often in a partial cleaning of the piece. The tissues were checked frequently, and it appears that the green paint was not disturbed by this technique.