Education & Training, Guides and advice, Latest News, Useful articles
We are excited to announce two internship opportunities at our flagship studio in Summer 2024. Both positions offer free accommodation and a monthly stipend. Successful candidates will be based in the historic city of Carlisle, just a stone’s throw from the Lake District National Park. You will be supported by an expert team, who will… Read more »
Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Useful articles, Works On Paper
The respect and worship of ancestral heritage has been practiced in China for many centuries, resulting in the creation of portraiture of artistic and familial significance. Dating as far back as the Ming dynasty, these paintings on silk, paper and canvas are so detailed that they can provide historians with vital evidence of lineage, rank… Read more »
Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Oil Paintings, Useful articles
As history progresses, the list of named artists working in England massively increases. You will see from our articles on artists of the 16th century and 17th century that by the 1690s there was a great leap in the number of names and their continued level of artistic output. Above: oil paintings and miniatures from… Read more »
Ceramics, Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Useful articles
As one of the earliest mediums in western art history, marble has been a dominant influence on artists for centuries. From the classical sculptures of ancient Greece to the marble halls of Art Deco buildings, this versatile material is known for its semi-opaque surface and long-lasting vibrancy. Above: marble sculptures from ancient Greece, ancient Rome,… Read more »
Ceramics, Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Specialist Items, Textiles, Useful articles
Every generation has been influenced by the unique toys and games of their childhood, but one piece has remained timeless for all. Dolls have been adored by their owners since ancient Rome, although their materials have changed over time – their enrichment has remained the same. As we grow older, these childhood companions may remain… Read more »
Ceramics, Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Useful articles
Tied with Chelsea as the first porcelain factory in England, Bow was famous for its industrious output and development of fine bone china. Inspired by the exported goods from Asia, which had been competition for British craftsmen since the 17th century, Bow set about creating its own designs as well as directly copying those from… Read more »
Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Oil Paintings, Useful articles
When faces are immortalised in oil paint, watercolour, pencil and pastels, the artist captures a vital aspect of the sitter’s life – usually commemorating their military prowess, regal status or marital role. Childhood portraiture, by contrast, captures a sense of what is yet to come – making these charming artworks an insightful glimpse into ambitions… Read more »
Artists, Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Useful articles
For the latest instalment of our regional artists series we head to North East England to explore those artists who have based their practices in the region, where influences span from the beauty of the Northumberland coastline, to the working class reality of industrialisation. Above: a watercolour view of Barnard Castle by Joseph Mallord William… Read more »
Gilding, Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Useful articles
Our gilding experts come across many forms of gold leaf application. One of the most impressive varieties is known as ormolu – a thin layer of gold applied with mercury or electricity to cover a piece of metallic decoration. Above: a selection of ormolu antiques including a pocket watch, candlestick, relief mounts, sculptures and frames… Read more »
Ceramics, Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Useful articles
The story of Wedgwood is not only one of great creative influence, but industrial ingenuity. In an era when the potteries of Great Britain had a rather unsophisticated production line, Josiah Wedgwood stepped forth to revolutionise and popularise an efficient yet highly artistic output of marketable earthenware and stoneware. Above: various items by Wedgwood including… Read more »
Ceramics, Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Useful articles
Wedgwood has been one of the most influential and popular ceramic brands since the mid 18th century. Today some of the most sought after designs can sell for upwards of £100,000 at auction and knowing how to determine their age and authenticity can help in securing insurance and sales. This guide will outline some of… Read more »
Collection Care, Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Useful articles, Works On Paper
Whilst old wallpaper might be a reason for many to renovate a room, older properties often have valuable and unique designs that benefit from professional conservation. If it is not already on display, antique wallpaper is often uncovered during an interior restoration. As tastes have changed, decorative elements are often hidden by new owners, who… Read more »
Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Oil Paintings, Useful articles
The year 1603 marked the end of the Elizabethan era, making way for James I and the house of Stewart. The new century would be a troubled one with the upheaval of civil war, a plague epidemic and the great fire of London. However, it did not limit great artistic progress. The baroque period flourished… Read more »
Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Useful articles
My name is Maya Sajnani and I am a graduating student at the University of St Andrews. I study art history, and I have a particular interest in medieval material culture in addition to English painting of the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. My approach has always been interdisciplinary with a strong focus on… Read more »
Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Oil Paintings, Useful articles
From the tumultuous reign of Henry VIII to the glory of Elizabeth I, artists working in England during the 16th century became experts at composing flattering images of wealthy patrons. This article will explore many of the famous names associated with the Tudor dynasty, as well as many who saw great political, social and royal upheaval… Read more »
Our team is experienced in providing support for the application of grants and heritage funding. We encourage the collaboration of foundations and charitable schemes that may help to alleviate the cost of conservation, making it an accessible pursuit for all artworks, interiors and decorative items of national and local importance. Above: two oil paintings before… Read more »
Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Oil Paintings, Useful articles
Winged figures have been a frequent feature in art from the ancient period to present day, adding a celestial presence to each and every composition. From the sanctity of the Christian archangel Gabriel to the child-like figure of cupid, these heavenly creatures have a wide range of associations. Above: a selection of artworks from different… Read more »
Guides and advice, History Of Art, Latest News, Oil Paintings, Useful articles
Many still life paintings contain hidden meanings, whether this is in the symbolism of flowers or in the inclusion of a human skull. One of the most typical features of this genre is nature’s bounty displayed in an abundance of fresh produce. Although still life paintings appear at first glance to be composed as a… Read more »
Antique Furniture, Guides and advice, Latest News, Useful articles
Welcome to the latest edition of conservation curiosities, where we delve into some of the most unusual and unique objects that come into our studio. This week we are looking at Boulle work, a style of furniture that once flourished under the region of the Sun King, Louis XIV of France. Above: a detail from… Read more »
Guides and advice, Latest News, Useful articles, Works On Paper
When an artwork on paper meets water, it is often assumed that it is left with irreversible damage. However, if the response is swift and professional, much of this deterioration can be halted and reversed before the paper begins to decay. Above: moisture and water damaged artworks on paper, before and after restoration in our… Read more »
