The cleaning of paintings is a very delicate and time consuming task.

Broadly one can differentiate between:

surface cleaning
varnish removal
removal of over-paint.

Depending on the nature of the substance that covers the original paint structure a variety of solvents, soaps, enzymes and mechanical techniques are at the restorer’s disposal to remove these discoloring layers.

The complexities of the cleaning process should not be underestimated. Paintings, just like their creators, are complex and highly individual by nature.

Here some examples of paintings in their various stages of the cleaning process.

Each and every work requires, deserves and needs specific attention and treatment.

Once I went to visit Vienna in search of a reputable Miniature restorer. I was told there are one or two, but I did not find them. A very rare breed – it seems like – and understandably so.

Miniature restoration is probably the most difficult category in the field of painting restoration.

Why?

Each dot you make in retouching has to hit absolutely the right shade. There is no second chance.

Many Miniatures are painted with water colors on ivory and are unvarnished. You just cannot afford to make a mistake and then try to wipe it off. A lot more will get damaged.

If you have a Miniature that is damaged, my advise to you is, live with it rather than handing it over to an inexperienced enthusiast.

I personally have never restored a Miniature painting, but I have great respect of those who can.

Bringing back life to these enticing little masterpieces is an art of note.

Portrait beofore | portrait after

It does not happen often,but ever now and again one of those cases comes along.
Here someone did not like the original looks of the woman portrayed.
The area of the face was completely over-painted. It was made to look much younger and slimmer.

A case of vanity, desire or insanity? I think it was the double chin :-}

And here another case of rejuvenation and “improvement”

This was amongst the greatest joys I had in painting restoration.
I think Gold Miners must have had similar experiences. Take some time and spot the changes – its quite remarkable.

Painting before

Painting after