Conservation of a portrait by Henry Howard RA
Portrait of the Rev. Benjamin Pullan (1785-1861) before treatment
This significant portrait by the prominent 19th century painter Henry Howard RA was obscured by heavily degraded varnish, poorly matched overpaint, accumulated surface dirt, and significant paint losses associated with the stretcher bars. The original frame had also become unstable and no longer provided adequate protection for the painting.
Treatment involved the consolidation of vulnerable paint, removal of degraded varnish and non-original overpaint, localised canvas repairs, and the careful filling and retouching of losses using reversible conservation materials. Structural repairs were complemented by the installation of a bespoke stretcher insert to support the canvas and improve the painting’s long-term stability. The original frame was treated alongside the painting, including repairs to damaged decorative surfaces and the construction of a bespoke build-up to improve its housing and long-term stability.
The treatment revealed the subtle modelling and colour relationships of Howard’s original composition, allowing the artist’s intent to be more clearly appreciated.
Conservation of a severely flaking 20th century portrait
Portrait before treatment
This intimate portrait by Australian artist Adelaide Perry presented significant conservation challenges arising from prolonged exposure to high relative humidity. Severe lifting and cleavage had developed between the canvas, ground, and paint layers, placing large areas of the composition at risk of loss. The painting was also affected by mould growth and fatty acid efflorescence, while the original frame was not providing adequate housing or protection.
Treatment focused on the stabilisation of the fragile paint and ground layers, alongside the careful removal of mould and efflorescence. The original frame was cleaned and adapted with a bespoke build-up to accommodate the painting safely, while a custom pH-neutral stretcher insert was installed to support the fragile paint layer by reducing vibration within the canvas. The treatment was completed with improved housing, a protective backing, and conservation framing to support the painting’s long-term preservation.