Notes from the Studio: Discoveries During Treatment

Sometimes the small discoveries are the most fun.  Recently in the conservation studio, removal of an acidic backing from a watercolor by William Zorach revealed vintage advertising and, even better, an additional signature by the artist.

Recto (front), before treatment. William Zorach (b. Eurburg, Lithuania, 1887; d. Bath, Maine, 1966). New York Harbor, 1923. Watercolor on Paper. 15 1/4"x21 1/2" signed and dated, bottom right corner

Recto (front), before treatment. William Zorach (b. Eurburg, Lithuania, 1887; d. Bath, Maine, 1966). New York Harbor, 1923. Watercolor on Paper. 15 1/4"x21 1/2" signed and dated, bottom right corner

Verso (reverse side), seen before removal of the acidic backing.

Verso (reverse side), seen before removal of the acidic backing.

During Backing Removal

During backing removal: The backing turned out to be a vintage advertisement, c. 1920's, for "Goodrich Hi-Press Rubber Footwear" with the slogan, "With the RED LINE 'round the top."

Zorach After Backing Removal

After backing removal: The treatment revealed another signature by the artist on the back of the watercolor, in the top left corner - seen in the detail at left