Der Freischutz Frieze in Ferguson Mansion

Unknown

Ca. 1901

Oil on Canvas

Total Conservation Cost: $75,000

The frieze around the dining room in the Ferguson Mansion represents scenes from one of the most popular German operas of the 19th century, Der Freischutz. It was composed by Carl Maria von Weber, one of the founders of the Romantic Movement in music, in 1817. The story is based on a German folktale and the title translates to “The free-shooter” or “Marksman.” This hand-painted frieze was completed as a custom piece for the home between the years 1901 and 1905.

The major condition issue is the flaking paint which is evident overall and not just in areas with noticeable loss. The paint is loosely attached to the canvas and in danger of falling away at the slightest touch.