Thesis: Donglin Chen

An Investigation Of The Stucco Mural Of The Wharton Esherick Museum Silo: Material Analysis And Conservation

This study presents the first comprehensive conservation-focused study of the pigmented stucco mural on the Wharton Esherick Museum Silo in Malvern, Pennsylvania. Created in 1966 by Wharton Esherick, a leading figure in American studio craft and modernist architecture, the mural serves as both an artistic statement and the final structural addition to his studio complex. However, decades of weathering have caused severe deterioration, particularly erosion, surface loss, and pigment disaggregation, threatening its preservation. 

A detailed condition assessment was carried out to map patterns of deterioration and inform conservation strategies. This included visual inspection, moisture monitoring, and field testing such as RILEM tube absorption and ASTM tape adhesion tests. Results revealed localized cracking, biological growth, pigment erosion, and material instability, particularly in areas where prolonged exposure and water infiltration have accelerated damage.