The mystery of the disappearing mural

Photo: Daniella Thompson

A couple of months ago I photographed Orchard Lane for a virtual tour published in the Berkeley Landmarks website.

At that time, the niche above the first flight of steps depicted the mural you see here. Although not one of the lane’s original features, the mural was a pleasant surprise along the way.

Apparently not everyone thought so, for shortly after the photograph was taken, someone came by with a can of gray spray paint and covered the mural.

Neighbors don’t know who did it or why, and nobody has taken the trouble to invstigate or to complain.