Thesis: Hutchins

Thesis: Frances Hutchins

A Technical and Historical Analysis of the Decorative Paintings by Nicola Monachesi in the Richard IV Alsop House, Middletown, Connecticut

The Richard Alsop IV House in Middletown, Connecticut, is significant in American architectural history for its mid-19th-century villa design and sophisticated first-floor murals. Attributed to Italian émigré Nicola Monachesi in 2009, these murals are one of only two surviving works by the artist and remain in relatively good condition, having undergone minimal intervention since their creation. The most significant treatment occurred after Wesleyan University’s acquisition of the property in 1949, when a varnish—now discolored—was applied between 1950 and 1954. While previous conservation reports have focused primarily on varnish removal, this paper offers the first comprehensive analysis of the original paintings themselves.

Exterior view of west elevation of the Richard Alsop IV House (Kate Whitney-Schubb, 2025).

Orthorectified photograph of north parlor ceiling (Kate Whitney-Schubb, 2025).
Building on previous studies, this thesis incorporates new research on Monachesi’s design sources and use of engravings. It also revisits prior attribution discussions and explores why Monachesi was chosen for the commission, placing the project within the broader context of his American career.

The research explores Monachesi's complete painting process, integrating practical elements like scaffolding, lighting, and the involvement of assistants, alongside technical analysis of sampled surface finishes. Onsite investigation includes raking-light photography to assess surface texture, brushwork, and design transfer. Laboratory analysis uses cross-sectional microscopy and advanced instrumental techniques to identify pigments, binding media, and painting stratigraphy.

The conservation history of the Alsop House paintings is inevitably explored in the investigation, with a focus on challenges such as overpainting, material preservation, and past interventions. Beyond offering guidance for future conservation work, the photographic documentation and analysis serve as valuable resources for scholars, contributing to the limited research on Nicola Monachesi and early 19th-century decorative painting techniques.
Sample taken from a painted leaf on the west wall of the morning room, with the sample location outlined in yellow (left). Cross-section of sample at 400x magnification, epi-illumination, UV-visible (365 nm), and long pass (420 nm) light (right).