The interiors of Government House contain outstanding examples of colonial craftsmanship. The conservation of these interiors, from encaustic tile floors to decorated walls and leadlight windows, requires specialist artisans. This seminar provides the opportunity to hear those involved in the work talk about their practice, maintaining 19th-century skills and traditions into the 21st century.

Speakers

Robert Griffin, HHT curator - the historic context of various finishes in the house
Dave McBeth, conservator and Warren Moorfoot, ceramic artist - reproducing Angelo Tornaghi’s 1870s encaustic floor tiles
Julie Whittlam, painted decoration conservator - reproducing the c1880 Lyon, Cottier & Co. decorative paint schemes
Kevin Little, leadlight specialist - work such as the c1890 Lyon and Cottier leadlight windows that depict the Governor’s coats of arms.
The reproduction of the decorative wallpaper of the main halls will also be discussed.