Abstract

In 2011 Crick Smith conservation undertook a programme of research and conservation of a group of murals at The Church of St. James the Less, New Mills, Derbyshire. The murals were believed to have been executed by the Powell Brothers of Leeds using the Gambier Parry Spirit Fresco technique. This research is ongoing.
Following an approved initial treatment proposal the conservation of the murals highlighted a few surprises, notably evidence of extensive over painting to all four in the past mimicking a faithful copy of the original design. This later layer was failing in areas revealing the original surface beneath. Samples were removed from one and examined by optical microscopy providing evidence for this and a reason for its failure. Research is ongoing to recreate a historically accurate Spirit Fresco to compare with the New Mills examples and other known examples in the UK. Little is currently known about this technique and a knowledge of the methods, materials and techniques used will provide valuable insight into the conservation methods and preservation of other frescos produced using this technique both here in the UK and elsewhere in Europe.
Crick Smith reports are written for a range of clients, information is deliberately presented in a style that is easily accessible, technical terms are fully explained to enable understanding by a non-­‐specialist reader, as it is understood that not all members of the client team may be experienced in understanding this type of investigation.