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