The objects conservation lab is currently treating this delicate porcelain teacup, dating from 1875, in preparation for an upcoming installation. Cincinnati ceramist, Mary Louise McLaughlin, who went by Louise, painted it with the images of George and Martha Washington.

The teacup came into the lab looking slightly unusual. Though it is made of porcelain, it did not have the typical glossy and translucent qualities characteristic of the material. Upon further examination, and after delving into the object’s records, it became clear that the cup had been broken into several pieces in its past. When this break was repaired, all the joins and surrounding surfaces were painted over to make the cup appear unbroken. This treatment successfully repaired the joins and “restored” the object to an unbroken appearance, but it covered the original ceramic surface, altering its natural appearance.

In consultation with the curator, our conservator decided to remove the thick layer of overpaint to show off the original translucent porcelain surface. As evident in these photos, the thick layer of paint became visible as our conservator dissolved and removed it from the ceramic surface.

This current treatment will remove the old overpaint and create new fills for losses. When finished, the glossy translucent surface of the porcelain will once again be visible, as will the thin hairline joins that show the piece had been broken in the past. Despite the visible evidence of breakage, we hope the treatment will allow visitors to better appreciate this beautiful ceramic teacup, intricately decorated by a talented artist. The cup and its saucer will be on view in May in Gallery 218.