Tricks of the Shade: Preservation of Chemically Developed Shading Papers Based on DuoShade Samples

Abstract

ABSTRACT From the late 1920s through the early 2000s, artists sometimes utilized chemically developed shading papers, or “chemigraphic” papers, to add dimensional effects to their drawings. These papers were precoated with patterns that were selectively revealed by applying a liquid developer. Drawings on these types of papers often show signs of deterioration, such as discoloration and fading of the developed patterns and staining of the paper support in areas where the developer was applied. This study investigates samples made from Grafix DuoShade chemigraphic papers and developers manufactured in the 1990s. These samples were analyzed to better understand their chemical makeup, deterioration, and preservation needs. The samples were characterized using macro X-ray fluorescence scanning and complementary spectroscopic techniques. To determine optimal storage environments, samples were artificially aged in different storage enclosures and colorimetry was used to compare the artificially aged samples to unaged controls. To determine optimal display environments, the light sensitivity of the samples before and after artificial aging was measured using microfadeometry. Based on the results, preservation recommendations for handling, storage, and display are provided.