WHITE CASCADE

ALEXANDER CALDER

Alexander Calder’s White Cascade was made in 1975 and is his largest indoor mobile. It was commissioned for the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia and has been on continuous view. Over a four day period in February 2019, the artwork was cleaned for the 1st time since its installation. This was no small feat. A swing stage was customized for the 120 foot high work, which the Conservator and Technicians were safety trained to operate. While the paint on the white elements is over four decades old and could only withstand surface dusting, the arms and central post were cleaned with a water and ethanol solution. Some lifting paint was set down and disfiguring drips were painted out where possible.