Papier mache mouldings were often used in creating the ornate ceilings in Georgian buildings.
Na Píobairí Uilleann (Society of Irish Pipers) at No. 15 Henrietta Street is undergoing refurbishment. The ceilings are in the care of architectural conservator Dorothy Hatton. She is bringing them back to the former glory they would have had in 1740, when this was Lord Rockingham's drawing room.
Despite their wealth, many upper class families chose the cheaper and faster option of papier mache decoration on their ceilings. It was a cleaner way of working and aesthetically Dorothy Hatton maintains was an option that allowed the production of very good detail.
Every stage of her work is documented, so that future conservators will be able to see the process. Painstakingly peeling away almost two and a half centuries' worth of paint demands patience, but does not involve any unknown chemicals.
This report for 'Liveline’ was broadcast on 10 December 1985. The presenter is Marian Finucane and the reporter is Freda McGough.
