Roy Lichtenstein's Screenprint on PlasticSandwich and Soda, 1964

Abstract

This work presents conservation treatment and analysis of two screenprints on clear plastic, Sandwich and Soda (1964) by Roy Lichtenstein, which is part of the portfolio X + X (Ten Works by Ten Painters). After acquisition, two different pressure-sensitive tapes directly adhered to the printing inks were discovered. At the time of this study, prior attempts to remove tape had resulted in visible damage to the ink. Analysis revealed that the plastic support is polystyrene; the blue printing ink is phthalocyanine blue, the red ink is chrome red, lithol Bordeaux, and barium sulphate; the red and blue ink binder is polystyrene; and the carrier and adhesive components of the tapes are cellulosic material and polyvinyl acetate. Examination and testing combined with extensive scientific analysis enabled thorough understanding of the materials and condition of the prints, as well as successful removal of the tapes and reduction of the adhesive residues.