Restoring antique picture frame

Restoration

Time, the environment, and accidents can all take their toll on works of art and their frames. We can help you restore your artworks enhancing the pleasure they give, and help keep them safe for the future. We can arrange most art restoration tasks including repairs on works in oils, acrylics, or on paper, as well as repairing and gilding period frames.

Restoring Antique Frames

Restoring Antique Frames

Using historical framing styles on art pieces of the same period or in juxtaposition with very modern pictures can be very effective. The same can also be said for mirrors in interiors. A damaged frame, however old, can spoil the overall design.

We can mould replacement pieces to restore losses, and refinish the surfaces with gold, paint, and gilt creams so that the surface matches the rest of the frame perfectly. For mirrors, we also advise on using modern antiqued glass in period frames. Standard mirror glass can be too clear and perfect, disrupting the effect gained through using an antique frame. However, with a few added imperfections to the mirror, to complement the frame, the desired effect is completed.

Please come in with your challenge or send us some photos so that we can advise you on what is best.

Restoring Works on Paper

Restoring Works on Paper

Restoration of Watercolours, Prints, and Works of Art on Paper is a service which is overseen by Marion Foster MA Cantab who has a Diploma in the Conservation of Paintings from the Courtauld Institute of Art. We work with a well-established Paper Conservation Restorer with extensive experience in treating artworks on paper.

Ideally all artwork should be in a stable condition prior to framing, without damages, stains, cellotape, or foxing. Restoring an artwork can significantly improve the long term condition of the work; repair losses and return artwork to a state closer to how it was intended to be viewed.

We can clean and conserve fragile works; treat discolouration and foxing stains; repair losses; and ensure they are in the best condition for the future.

Once a piece has been restored it is important to employ conservation techniques in framing so that the problems are less able to reoccur. Paper artworks should always be sealed between acid free mount boards and kept away from the glass. Furthermore to stop on going discolouration, we offer a range of conservation glass options, with up to 99% UV protection, to guard your artwork from harmful light.

Restoring Works on Canvas

Restoring Works on Canvas

Restoring artworks on Canvas and Panel is a service which is overseen by Marion Foster MA Cantab who has a Diploma in the Conservation of Paintings from the Courtauld Institute of Art. We work with a Fine Art Conservator who specialise in the conservation and restoration of paintings.

We can provide a full restoration and conservation service; surface cleaning accumulated dust and smoke; the removal of discoloured varnishes to reveal original colours; relining canvases where the paint layer is separating;  retouching paint losses to match the original.

Ideally all artwork should be in a stable condition prior to framing, clean, free from flaking paint, and with a canvas in good condition. Restoring an artwork can significantly improve the long term condition of the work; repair losses and return artwork to a state closer to how it was intended to be viewed.

A restored artwork can then be framed sympathetically. We can advise on antique, modern, and reproduction frames as required and create the perfect frame for your artwork!