Case Studies, Guides and advice, Useful articles, Watercolour
When a watercolour has foxing, looking back at the before and after photographs is always fascinating to see the difference we’ve achieved from the restoration. Even when a watercolour is completely covered in marks, there is always something that can be done. You’d be forgiven for thinking when you see the before photos below that… Read more »
Case Studies, Guides and advice, Useful articles, Watercolour
Alongside foxing and tears, acid-staining is another very common issue for works-on-paper. The problem stems from when acidic and inappropriate backing materials have been used by the artist or framer, and subsequently, pollutants have leached out into the artwork. Unsuitable materials will have been used for paintings of a certain age when the effects of acid… Read more »
Guides and advice, Useful articles, Watercolour, Works On Paper
It is always a fascinating source of interest for our clients and art collectors to see how we repair watercolours and works-on-paper. It is understandable to assume there is little or nothing that can be done to fix such fragile items. Although these are naturally delicate items, repairs are still possible and very successful. So… Read more »
Guides and advice, Oil Paintings, Useful articles, Watercolour
When artwork arrives at our studio to be cleaned or restored, we are often asked about valuations and what an artwork may be worth. Whether a collection has been inherited or acquired at auction, gaining an idea of value is an understandable consideration for many private collectors. Valuations can help with: insurance investment in restoration… Read more »
If you’ve ever wondered if there is anything that can be done to restore watercolours and works-on-paper, you certainly aren’t alone. It is an understandable concern to wonder whether these artworks are too fragile and thin to have work undertaken on them, but with the right care and appropriate treatments, works-on-paper can be restored just… Read more »
Our latest case study explores the restoration of a mid 19th century watercolour seascape, one of a pair and an original Luigi Renault of the Consul Kestner schooner. Our client came to us rather concerned and discouraged after an antique expert concluded that it would be difficult to treat the painting. The issue with our… 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 »
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 »
Frames, Latest News, Useful articles, Watercolour, Works On Paper
Acidic elements in frames may be unknown to you until years after the piece has been displayed. This type of deterioration occurs over a long period of time, becoming progressively worse to the point of decay. You will notice it in a discolouration of the paper, especially in the areas which are touching the materials… Read more »
Due to conservation concerns and damage, a backing board or sheet may need to be removed from a watercolour painting. These boards may have contained acidic elements, causing discolouration and decay to the original artwork, or they may have been affected by mould and damage over time. Our ICON accredited paper conservator has a sensitive… Read more »
Watercolours and other artworks or documents on paper can be sensitively washed with professional solutions. Find out more about the washing and drying process 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 and… 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 »
If you are a collector of watercolour paintings or works on paper, you may be familiar with the appearance of reddish brown spots on your painting, commonly known as ‘foxing’. These rusty looking patches can mar the appeal of your painting, and if left untreated can cause serious damage to an already delicate artwork. At… Read more »
How to remove mould from your watercolour? Ideally, mould on your painting should be caught early to avoid spreading. Initial indications of mould can be identified in the appearance of a fine white fluff which forms furry patches which can spread quickly, becoming increasingly problematic for your watercolour. Mould thrives in damp conditions and recommendations… Read more »
Despite extensive damages, art on paper restoration and conservation can significantly improve the aesthetic and structural integrity of your watercolour and treatment can be carried out by trained professionals. How to clean your watercolour Accidents do happen and may result in stains on your watercolour. Maintaining a clean environment and reducing risks of spillage is… Read more »
How do I mount and frame my watercolour? The selection of mount and framing can have a significant impact on the aesthetic of your watercolour however improper framing can also have a highly detrimental effect in the long term stability of your piece. Common issues the conservator faces with regards to paper conservation are associated… Read more »
Creases may be caused by accidental damage or improper storage. Treatment may include “drumming” on to Japanese paper to flatten the paper. Undulations, effectively bumps and bulges in the painting, may be caused by raised humidity and due to the hygroscopic properties of paper (water absorbent), controlling the humidity can help prevent the initial structural… Read more »
Watercolour paintings and works on paper are inherently fragile items. The challenges they face can be therefore quite different to more robust oil paintings on canvas and panel. There is, however, always a solution to the problems that they face. Whether a watercolour has foxing, or a map is torn, professional conservation can rectify these… Read more »
