Cornell University – Sigma Phi Fraternity Restoration
New Haven, CT – Grand Light has been contracted by Sigma Phi Fraternity at Cornell University to restore several antique light fixtures from the fraternities dormitory. There are seventeen fixtures in total, ranging in material from copper, brass, steel, and even pewter, each requiring specialized techniques to restore them to their full glory.
The project began by traveling to Cornell University in Ithaca, New York to package up and safely transport the seventeen fixtures back to our shop.
Small outdoor wall fixtures from the front of the Sigma Phi Fraternity house.
These had been repaired during the course of their existence including a new door which does not exhibit the same detailing as it’s twin.We are start by replicating the metal detail to the top of the door to match In addition, The frames are not soldered together and are being held together bu the glass panels utilizing much silicone to keep them in place.This lantern will have to be soldered together to make it mechanically sound. During this time all corrective actions will be taken to straighten the frames out.These will then be completely refinished. In addition, all glass panels will be replaced with a clear frosted panel specially cut to fit the frames.
A small outdoor ceiling light had provided illumination of the entry alcove.
The entry alcove has a vaulted arch that requires the mounting bracket to bent at a specific angle and curve. It appears that a shade or globe may have been part of the fixtures, and we are looking at possible replacements to match the original.
There are four wall sconces, three of which have a mica shade.
Out of the four indoor wall sconces, three have a mica shade. We will replicate a mica shade to match the original shade. In addition, the finish has broken down over time, exposing the base metal to corrosion, there for it will be removed and refinished.
There are two pewter wall sconces.
Two pewter and brass wall sconces and will be cleaned and polished to regain the original fixture luster. Special care must be taken regarding this soft pewter finish.
There are four hand-painted indoor wall sconces.
Four hand-painted indoor wall sconces are also being restored,the finish has broken down over time, exposing the base metal to corrosion, there for it will be removed and refinished. There is much intricate detail which will need to me had painted.
Silver and pewter chandeliers.
There are two ten light chandeliers constructed with pewter and brass components which match the sconces. There is significant breakdown throughout these fixtures and they will be cleaned and polished, and antiqued in areas where there are high levels of corrosion. Over the course of time, the bottom ball and finial had been removed so all of these components will be replaced and refinished to closely match the aged look of these chandeliers.
Located in the back of the building are two large outdoor wall lanterns.
These two large outdoor wall lanterns are similar in structure to the two smaller ones from the front, and have also had repairs done in a similar manner. One door had been replaced and the frame has been bent in some areas. These lanterns will have to be soldered together to make it mechanically sound such as the type 1 lanterns. During this time all corrective actions will be taken to straighten the frames out.These will then be completely refinished.In addition, all glass panels will be replaced with a clear frosted panel specially cut to fit the frames.
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