Asa's Journey

 

The large portrait of Lehigh founder Asa Packer, which underwent a year-long restoration, is back home on the Lehigh campus and now prominently on display in the Lehigh University Arts Galleries.  

The portrait, given to the university in 1961, was carefully restored by Hartmann Fine Art Conservation Services Inc. of Carlisle, Pa. The restoration process included the careful removal of countless layers of dirt and nicotine. Tears in the canvas also were repaired.

Above, follow the journey to restore the painting.

Video, photos and reporting by Stephanie Veto.