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| Dime
Savings Bank,
Brooklyn, New York |
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The
gilded dome entablature and coffered ceiling are distinctive features of this impressive Beaux Arts-style landmark in downtown Brooklyn (Mowbray & Uffinger, 1907). But after nearly a century, the large heavy rosettes were dangerously loose. Chunks had fallen and netting was installed below the ceiling. Soiled surfaces and areas of paint loss made the interior unattractive.
EverGreene Painting Studios, Inc. performed a plaster conditions survey to identify loose areas and recommended preservation strategies. The first priority was to conserve the original ornamental plaster and polychromatic decorative painting scheme. Treatments included: Ornamental Plaster • Securing rosettes by stitching them back to the lath with heavy-duty wire ties inserted in inconspicuous areas. • Replicating missing rosettes in cast plaster. • Stabilizing flat and ornamental plaster throughout the banking hall. Decorative Painting • Conservation cleaning of the original polychromatic decorative painting and gilding. • Matching inpainting, glazing and gilding of areas where finishes were lost. • Finishing replicated plaster to match the surrounding areas. Marble Cleaning • Cleaning the fluted marble columns and wainscoting. The resplendent interior now presents an atmosphere of polished confidence to the bank’s customers. Photo: © 2000 Whitney Cox |