Well intended, acting as a protective barrier between the work of art and the elements, over time the paper has become a hazard itself.

It disintegrates and fish moths eat it.

Dust and solid objects that have settled between the bottom member of the stretcher and the canvas can cause tenting and paint-loss on the front of the work.

Some times a slightly unusual approach has to be taken to achieve the desired results.

Framing – a very tricky part in the entire process of creating the perfect picture. Here the mere technical aspects of what it takes to build a frame. A wooden moulding, machined, carved or stuccoed, mitered and joined, primed, leafed or painted – that’s your frame. Here some pictures of how a seriously damaged Victorian frame gets transformed into a 17th century Dutch frame:

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

Paper stuck to the reverse of paintings and their frames

Framers have done it for decades. Why ? They say it keeps the dust out and it looks neater. My experience: It traps the climate, the dust still get in, fish moths love to eat it and it takes for ever to remove it.

I believe this is an attempt to cover up shoddy craftsmanship. Sorry framers, but something ‘s got to change.

Once the paper was removed interesting information about the painting’s history were revealed. The Artist’s name and address, the name of the person portrayed, a sales price and two custom stamps.

An Italian Customs stamp, another stamp - still to be researched and a lot of text.

In many cases the reverse of a painting reveals a more accurate and honest picture of the work’s history and condition then the front. To cover up this vital part of information is not only negligent but as well very unprofessional.