As we approach the end of the year, we’ve taken an interesting look back over the many restoration projects we have had the pleasure to complete in 2019. From tears and missing canvas to water damage and foxing, we have treated all manner of artworks, ceramics and furniture this year. Here are some highlights from… Read more »
For many art collectors, the worst-case scenario for the condition of their artworks would be if they were damaged through water, fire or a bad accident. Unfortunately, such incidents do happen and requires the need for artworks to be removed from the scene promptly and safely. We are always able to suitably package such items… Read more »
A very special part of conservation is being able to learn more about the history and provenance of each piece that comes into the studio. For one map that we recently received, we were privileged to learn more about its fascinating place in history, dating back to the Second World War when the map was… Read more »
Now another year has come to an end, we’ve taken some time to reflect and look back over some interesting – and unique – restoration projects that we completed in 2018. From easel paintings to clay elephants to model aircraft – the breadth of conservation work that we carry out in the studio may surprise… Read more »
As part of our disaster recovery services, we regularly receive fire and smoke damage paintings into the studio. A proportion of these paintings have sadly been damaged in house fires, in circumstances beyond the owner’s control. For many other oil paintings and works on paper that have fire and smoke damage from open fire and… Read more »
As part of a visit to Glasgow in early 2001, Banksy’s ‘Peace is Tough’ exhibition (held jointly with Jamie Reid) at The Arches in Argyle Street saw the elusive, subversive artist leave three works inside the venue. They are of Mona Lisa surrounded by a picture frame and, on her left, a gun-toting monkey sporting… Read more »
Silverfish are a common pest capable of damaging paper artworks and documents. They can frequently be found in households around the United Kingdom. Above: paper which has been partially eaten by pests Learn more about silverfish from our ICON accredited paper conservator, including the ways in which this type of damage can be prevented and… Read more »
Frames, Latest News, Useful articles, Watercolour, Works On Paper
Some frames may cause damage to the paper they should be protecting, whether this is a watercolour, print, photograph or document. Frame damage is caused by high levels of acidity found in mounts, backing boards and adhesives, causing discolouration and deterioration. This may be found in cheaper frames or older ones which may have been… Read more »
Paper artworks such as watercolours, prints, photographs, posters and documents can be protected from harm with simple methods. This includes the correct atmosphere, protective non-acidic framing, and avoiding brightly lit areas that may have caused fading. Above: an antique engraving which has been affected by foxing, before and after restoration by our paper conservator Find… Read more »
A watercolour painting is one of the most sensitive genres of artwork, these delicate landscapes and portraits require professional conservation treatments following damage to ensure their safety. Above: a watercolour before and after restoration due to foxing and acidic discolouration Watercolours can face drastic deterioration from humidity levels, sunlight exposure, accidents and household disasters such… Read more »
Torn watercolours can be professionally restored with amazing results. Find out more in the video below featuring our ICON accredited paper conservator: How can we help? If you have a watercolour, print, document, letter, photograph, or any other item which has been affected by tears or deterioration, please reach out to our helpful team who… Read more »
Watercolours can be sensitively washed to remove contaminants from acidic framing, mould and foxing. Find out more in our video below, where our ICON accredited paper conservator shows you the process of washing and drying a delicate work on paper: Get in touch with our team If you have any concerns about a paper artwork… Read more »
It is always important to have a work on paper, such as watercolour, print, engraving or document, professionally assessed for hidden damage. Find out more in our video below: Get in touch with our team If you have any concerns about a paper artwork or document in your care, please contact our team for swift… Read more »
The painting by the Renaissance master Raphael is becoming more and more damaged due to the humidity in the gallery where it’s on display in Italy. This is due to the failure to repair a faulty air-conditioning unit. Due to the humidity and the temperatures, these paintings have been kept at, the paintings have begun… Read more »
About 20 firefighters battled the blaze at Ackergill Tower in Caithness and averted a “near catastrophe” by preventing it from spreading to the main building. The blaze broke out in the early hours of Sunday morning at the grade A-listed building. A member of the public alerted the fire service after smoke was seen coming… Read more »
According to Sotheby’s Institute of Art, only 5% of the world’s artworks will survive the next 100 years. This seems a disproportionately small number taking into account all the artworks around the world, however given the requirements of conservation and proper care, it becomes possible that artwork may face quicker destabilisation, damage and loss of… Read more »
On Thursday 28th May a lock of hair belonging to the master composer Mozart went up for auction at Sotheby’s. Encased in a gilt locket, Sotheby’s valued the piece of hair dating back to 1791 at between £10,000 and £12,000. The lock of hair was originally owned by Mozart’s widow, Constanze. Locks of hair were… Read more »
As any art collector is aware, the problem of infestations in artwork can result in untold damage, from both an aesthetic and financial perspective. The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston has come up with a unique solution to rid itself of their unwanted guests. The 1.2 million visitors who come through the museum’s doors… Read more »
On the 8th May 2015, one of the Duke of Wellington’s paintings in Apsley House know as The Titian’s Mistress was being restored. Having come into his collection in 1813, experts believed the painting was a copy produced by later followers after Titian’s death in 1576. However, after years of dirt, grime and overpainting were… Read more »
The iconic ‘Snorting Copper’ by Banksy has been successfully restored and returned to its rightful home in Shoreditch, London. The artwork, which first appeared on a public toilet block in 2001, had been subject to considerable damage. Property developers bought the site and proceeded with restoring Banksy’s embattled work by contacting the Fine Art Restoration… Read more »
