Treatments

Removal of Surface Films

The photograph below shows the detail of a painting whose surface appears disfigured with a layer of nicotine, darkened varnish, and grime. The surface films are tested to ensure safe removal without damaging original paint. Attentiveness is paramount in the choice of a solvent selected for cleaning as some pigments are even sensitive to distilled water. After all, a mistake could result in damage to the artist's work.

Surface Films Shown In Layers

During Treatment, Detail of Grime/Varnish Removal, Normal Light

Unexpected Surprises

Occasionally, removal of varnishes and overpaint reveal unexpected surprises. In the following painting, cleaning and removing the overpaint layers revealed angels and a rosary that was not previously visible.

Painting Before Cleaning

Cleaning of Painting Reveals
Angels & Rosary in Hand

Tears & Missing Paint

Tears are mended by aligning threads, reweaving them, and securing them with adhesives. Losses of paint are compensated with inlays and inpainting of missing paint.

Area of Old Tear, Raking Light

Area of Old Tear, Raking Light

Overpaint Partially Removed, Revealing Tear & Insert

Overpaint Partially Removed, Revealing Tear & Insert

After Inpainting, Normal Light

After Inpainting, Normal Light

Structural Work

On occasion, a painting exhibits severe distortions, such as dents, bulges, or cupping paint. These conditions frequently require that a second canvas or lining adhered to the original canvas with an appropriate adhesive.

Painting with an Out of Plane Surface

Painting with an Out of Plane Surface

Painting After Being Lined

Painting After Being Lined

Frame Repair

The corners of frames are frequently damaged. We will ensure missing elements of the frame are fabricated and reattached. And, at other times, a frame may need to be re-gold leafed.

Frame Before Treatment

Before Treatment

Frame During Treatment

During Treatment

Frame After Treatment

After Treatment