Lyman Estate Chandelier Conservation
When a homeowner needs to repair or clean an overhead light, the problem can usually be solved with a trip to the hardware store. It's not so easy at Historic New England, especially when we need to clean ornate chandeliers and sconces in the ballroom at the Lyman Estate in Waltham, Massachusetts, where, according to Ella Lyman Cabot, the waltz was introduced to Boston society in 1827.
These pictures illustrate the careful steps taken by Associate Conservator Michaela Neiro and Mellon Fellow Gretchen Guidess as they de-install, disassemble, label, clean, and re-wire the chandelier and other lighting fixtures at our conservation lab in Haverhill, Massachusetts.
This project is one of many Historic New England is undertaking in preparation for the reopening of the Lyman Estate following a large-scale energy efficiency and weatherization project.
