Conservation & Restoration
PAINTINGS
We assist owners and managers of artworks in understanding, preserving and making decisions about their paintings, in order to avoid visible or invisible damage, loss of value and inappropriate interventions.
Our studio specialises in the conservation and restoration of antique, modern, and contemporary paintings on canvas, panel or mixed media. We treat paintings in various media, including oil, acrylic, vinyl paint and gouache. Each project begins with a detailed assessment of the work to identify any weaknesses, short- or medium-term risks, and priorities for intervention. This diagnosis may constitute an independent condition report, without immediate restoration.
When treatment is necessary, it is carried out in accordance with the ethical principles of ECCO and ICOM, which aim to ensure that intervention is minimal, reversible and respectful of the integrity of the work.
Among other things, treatments offered include cleaning paint layers, lightening or removing altered varnishes, removing overpainting, filling in gaps using structured fillers and reversible paint retouching, and consolidating and/or restoring the support in the event of tears, cracks, lifting, deformation, etc.
We have specialist training which we continually update to keep abreast of the latest restoration techniques and methods. This approach enables us to offer solutions that are tailored to and respectful of your works of art. We are proficient in new cleaning techniques such as buffer solutions, macro and micro-emulsions, rigid and semi-rigid gels, etc., as well as various support restoration techniques such as lining, mist-lining, strip-lining, canvas sutures, panel gluing, etc.
We have the capacity and know-how to restore large-format works of art, which may be located in churches, castles or other historic buildings. These restorations can take place in our workshop or on site (if a suitable workspace can be arranged).
On-site treatments can also be carried out in the case of sensitive works, or when it is impossible to move them. Otherwise, we can arrange for the transport of your works or are available to receive them directly at the workshop.
Each restoration is accompanied by clear, illustrated documentation, which is given to the owner or curator to facilitate decision-making and long-term monitoring.
We are at your disposal for any information or advice concerning your works in order to offer you the best possible solution.
FRAMES
A frame is an integral part of a work of art, both aesthetically and in terms of its conservation. A fragile, unsuitable or unstable frame can pose a real risk to the painting it protects.
Our studio conserves and restores antique frames, whether gilded, carved, polychromed or patinated [spelling?], using an approach that respects their materiality, history and function
Each project begins with a detailed assessment to determine the appropriate treatment in accordance with professional standards. Treatments may include the consolidation of weakened structures, the restoration of missing mouldings, the filling of gaps, pictorial or gilded reintegration, as well as the cleaning of surfaces and the removal of any overpainting or patina. These interventions aim to restore the frame’s aesthetic appeal and visual harmony while preventing further deterioration.
Our studio is skilled in various gilding techniques, using water or mixtion, as well as the creation of patinas.
Once the treatments are complete, the works are carefully reframed. The hanging and framing systems are assessed and, if necessary, replaced with suitable devices to ensure the safety of the work, its proper presentation and long-term conservation.
Each intervention is accompanied by illustrated documentation, facilitating subsequent monitoring of the frame and the work.
HISTORIC INTERIORS
Decorative elements integrated into the architecture — painted ceilings, wall decorations, ornamental features — require a specific approach, combining an understanding of the building, respect for the original materials, and interventions adapted to the context.
Our studio specialises in the restoration and reconstruction of painted decorations, including imitation wood and marble, favouring solutions that focus above all on stabilisation, legibility and long-term preservation of the ensembles.
Each project is subject to an in-depth preliminary study to understand the historical, technical and aesthetic context of the decoration, identify the causes of deterioration, and define realistic and proportionate priorities for intervention.
Treatments may include consolidating the supports, fixing the paint layers, cleaning, filling in gaps and restoring missing parts or elements. These interventions are designed to stabilise the state of conservation and preserve the authenticity of the decorations while restoring their legibility and chromatic quality.
The work is carried out in close collaboration with heritage stakeholders. When the project requires it, our workshop calls on specialists from complementary trades to ensure a consistent and respectful approach.
