Watercolor Signature Help

Hoping someone can help ID this signature. First initial maybe is E. There is a letter on top of the E. The rest is auison or avison

 

I wonder if it might be something like E. T. Hauison.

 

I'm thinking E T Lawson.....cuz it sounds nice.

If u like this painting re-mat it as soon as possible because the mats are cheap and full of acid that will leetch on to the paper.
See how the inside cut has turned brown.....an acid free mat will stay bright white for decades.

 

Last name is more likelyeither Davison or Madison

 

All good ideas...thanks

Kath

 

Hi,
I have had some smaller watercolors from 1900s with wonderful curved shaped mats. I use the Maalox treatment on them and no worry about them browning the paper. Just plain acid free mats are not that expensive but when you try and have them cut or worse try and do it yourself, it is better to use the old one.
greg

 

Maalox treatment??

 

Now that you mention it, I do see E. Davison.

 

I'm guessing this refers to Maalox neutralizing acids?

 

Hi,
I learned this hint from a conservator from the Lib of Congress. If you want to save newspaper clippings and keep them from turning yellow and brittle. Make a solution in a tray of equal parts club soda and Maalox which is a liquid antiacid, there are other brands you can use. Soak the clipping in the solution for 15 mins and hang to dry. When dry you can lightly brush off any powdery deposits. That is why I like to hang and not try lying down the item to dry. It will stay white and supple. I have clipping that I did in the 1950s and they are still fine. The library uses this to save complete newspapers. I have adapted the idea to any paper and very light cardboard like matts to keep the wood backing from touching the photos or prints. Remember if you are doing letters that sometimes the inks are water soluble and will run.
greg

 

Hopefully today I can find a minute to take it out of the frame and look at the matte. With any luck a name on the back of the painting would be nice.

Kath

 

First name appears to be 'Edith' written in a stylized monogram-type form, and last name 'Davison' as others have suggested.

 

Took this out of the frame. No other names written. Will take some time and research names. Thanks everyone for your input!

Kath