Frick Collection Ceiling Assessments

The Frick Collection occupies the former New York residence of industrialist Henry Clay Frick, who amassed a remarkable collection of fine and decorative art. The mansion was designed by Thomas Hastings of the prestigious Beaux-Arts firm Carrère and Hastings, with construction completed between 1914 and 1916. Following Frick’s vision, the residence was transformed into a public art museum after his death.

Our conservation team conducted thorough condition assessments of ceiling surfaces in three key areas: the entrance hall, west gallery, and enamels room. These assessments aimed to evaluate the condition of historic ornamental elements to develop appropriate repair strategies and temporary protection measures during construction activities.

The west gallery, originally designated as the picture gallery, is positioned at the northern end of the residence. Adjacent to this space is the enamels room, formerly Frick’s personal study, which can be accessed from the west end of the gallery. In the entrance hall, conservators focused on examining the wood veneer panels and composition ornaments. The assessment of the west gallery and enamels room involved close inspection of ornamental plaster ceilings and laylight trim, including sounding techniques to identify hidden voids. The team also examined accessible areas of the ceilings’ reverse sides from the attic space. Various deterioration conditions were documented, including cracks, blind voids, delamination, and efflorescence. This information was carefully recorded on architectural drawings, which then served as the foundation for developing treatment plans and cost estimates. Additionally, our team provided specialized consulting services regarding the protection of historic plaster ceilings during the replacement of the west gallery skylight.