Painting & Frame Restorer in Hertfordshire
Antique frame restoration and conservation treatments range from stabilising the joinery to reducing or enlarging a frame to match a painting’s size.
Our team of experienced craftsmen and women also treat flaking gesso and gesso losses, and replace missing surface decoration with either hand-carved gilt-wood or newly cast composition ornaments identical to the originals.
Once this initial work is completed we take great care to ensure that the colour and karat of the newly applied gold leaf is harmonious with the original gilding, before duplicating the antique patina.
We always try to preserve as much of the original finish as possible. Sometimes this is not viable and in these cases the entire frame can be gilded, distressed and antiqued to replicate the look of years gone by.
Painting Restoration
We have some of the finest restorers in the country able to undertake all works.
We have over 30 years of experience working on everything from sixteenth century panels and old masters through to modern British paintings.
Due to the complexity and different approaches needed for each individual piece, we would recommend you contact us with details of the piece including artist, size, subject and condition. From there we will require some images of the painting or frame. After this we can give an approximate idea as to cost. This will fall between two parameters and act as a guide; this will not be an exact quotation as this can not be achieved until the image has been assessed personally by the restorer and paintings will sometimes throw up unforeseen problems.
We will not differentiate between a trade inquiry or a private inquiry. The time and skill involved will be the same.
Our Painting Restoration Services
Our painting restoration services cover a wide range of needs, from minor cleaning to complex repairs. Over time, paintings can suffer from the effects of aging, environmental factors, and accidental damage, resulting in discoloration, cracking, and structural issues. At Victoria Fine Art, we assess each painting individually to determine the best approach for restoration, ensuring that our methods are both effective and sensitive to the historical value of the piece.
Key Aspects of Our Painting Restoration Process
Surface Cleaning: We begin by carefully removing layers of dust, grime, and old varnish that may have built up over the years, unveiling the true colours and details of the painting.
Paint Layer Stabilisation: For works with flaking or peeling paint, we use advanced techniques to stabilise and secure the paint layer, ensuring the artwork’s longevity.
Colour and Detail Retouching: Using specialised pigments and a steady hand, our restorers match colours with precision, preserving the piece’s original aesthetics without over-alteration.
Final Varnishing: To protect the newly restored artwork, we apply a fresh layer of varnish, enhancing its vibrance and providing a durable, protective finish.
Conservation of Paintings: Long-Term Preservation
Conserving a painting goes beyond simple cleaning; it involves protecting the work against future deterioration. Our painting conservation service includes preventative measures and treatments to maintain the integrity of your artwork for generations to come. We work to ensure that each piece is safeguarded from potential environmental threats, such as humidity, light exposure, and temperature fluctuations.
Conservation Techniques
Protective Coatings: We apply museum-grade protective coatings that prevent UV damage and yellowing, preserving the vibrance of colours over time.
Structural Repairs: For paintings that have suffered tears or weakening of the canvas, we offer structural repairs, reinforcing the artwork’s base and ensuring stability.
Environmental Control Advice: Our experts provide guidance on optimal display and storage conditions, helping you keep your painting in pristine condition.
Picture Cleaners and Restorers with a Commitment to Quality
As dedicated picture cleaners and restorers, we take pride in restoring artworks to their best possible state. Our team consists of skilled professionals with years of training and experience, each passionate about art and committed to the meticulous care and restoration of paintings. Whether the piece requires light cleaning or comprehensive restoration, we take the utmost care to preserve the artist’s original work while enhancing its overall appearance.
Why Choose Victoria Fine Art for Picture Cleaning and Restoration?
Expert Knowledge: Our team’s extensive background in fine art restoration means we have an in-depth understanding of both classic and contemporary works.
Attention to Detail: Every stage of the cleaning and restoration process is completed with careful attention to detail, ensuring high-quality results.
Customised Care: Each painting is unique, and we adapt our restoration techniques to meet the specific needs of each work.
Framing Restoration
In addition to our painting restoration services, Victoria Fine Art offers frame restoration services to complement the artwork itself. A damaged frame can detract from a beautiful painting, but our skilled craftsmen are experts in restoring frames to their original elegance. We repair cracks, fill missing details, and use quality finishes to revive frames in a way that suits the historical and aesthetic style of the painting.
Antique frame restoration and conservation treatments range from stabilising the joinery to reducing or enlarging a frame to match a painting’s size.
Our team of experienced craftsmen and women also treat flaking gesso and gesso losses, and replace missing surface decoration with either hand-carved gilt-wood or newly cast composition ornaments identical to the originals.
Once this initial work is completed we take great care to ensure that the colour and karat of the newly applied gold leaf is harmonious with the original gilding, before duplicating the antique patina.
We always try to preserve as much of the original finish as possible. Sometimes this is not viable and in these cases the entire frame can be gilded, distressed and antiqued to replicate the look of years gone by.
Frame Restoration Techniques
Gilding and Re-gilding: Our restorers bring frames back to life by reapplying gold leaf or other finishes to enhance their lustre and align with the artwork’s time period.
Structural Repairs: Broken or chipped frames are carefully repaired, providing stability and returning them to their original form.
Customised Restoration: We customise each frame restoration to match the style and period of the artwork, ensuring that frame and painting harmoniously enhance each other.
