How to look for technical evidence in 18th century American paintings, where to find it, how it may be interpreted and how recorded. Accurate recording and reporting of grounds and strainers or stretchers are stressed. Evidence revealed by nails, tacks, tacking edges and pigments is reviewed. (Abstractor's note:. The article is clear and concise and is useful to both conservators and art historians. Note of error: Fig. 5, p. 354, shows dark brown ground on inside face of oval strainer from <i>Mrs. Edward kitchen, 3X magnification.) -- AATA