TECHNOLOGICAL STUDY
TECHNOLOGICAL STUDY
TECHNOLOGICAL STUDY
TECHNOLOGICAL STUDY
TECHNOLOGICAL STUDY
A technological study consists in objective observations and examinations of the materiality of an artwork. This step leads to a better understanding of the nature of a piece and its history. Those informations gathered allows to build an appropriate proposal treatment for each work of art. Based on this study, our stdio can provide a condition report or advices on the conservation state of an artwork.
A technological study consists in objective observations and examinations of the materiality of an artwork. This step leads to a better understanding of the nature of a piece and its history. Those informations gathered allows to build an appropriate proposal treatment for each work of art. Based on this study, our stdio can provide a condition report or advices on the conservation state of an artwork.
A technological study consists in objective observations and examinations of the materiality of an artwork. This step leads to a better understanding of the nature of a piece and its history. Those informations gathered allows to build an appropriate proposal treatment for each work of art. Based on this study, our stdio can provide a condition report or advices on the conservation state of an artwork.
SERVICES
ANCIENT PAINTINGS
Panel & canvas paintings
Paintings are composed of multiple layers applied on wood, canvas, or other supports. Over time, these materials deteriorate either naturally, accidentally or through use. Whether it is a weakened support, microorganisms or wood insects infestation, a damaged and lifted paint layer, or an oxidized varnish, the restorer's goal is to identify these issues and treat them. This is done to ensure the preservation and legibility of the artwork. Our expertise extends to the restoration of easel paintings, murals or ceiling paintings, painted decorations, as well as monumental works, whether in the studio or directly on-site.
ANCIENT SCULPTURES
Stones - Polychromy
Sculptures are works of art characterized by their three dimensional form. Through time, sculptures have become a significant part of our cultural heritage. Made during different eras and from various materials, sculptures carry a wide range of values and challenges. In our studio we embrace this diversity as a nature of art and are trained to treat multiple scenarios as polychrome sculptures, made out of stone materials, wood and other non traditional materials like plastics or even foods.
STRUCTURAL TREATMENT
Wooden support
Structural restoration requires in-depth skills in woodworking, wood science, adhesives, and practical experience. Constricting frames, old reinforcements, xylophagous insect attacks, accidents, or adverse environmental conditions can cause damage to panel paintings. The structural treatment of a painting encompasses the preservation and restoration of the wooden support within its structure to ensure its durability. We offer customized solutions for the treatment of parqueted panels, the bonding of fractures, the reconstruction of missing elements, the removal of non-original reinforcements, the installation of secondary supports, and the implementation of a non-restrictive framing.
MODERN & CONTEMPORARY PAINTINGS
Since the beginning of the 20th century artists began to experiment with a wide range of commercially available paints. We navigate the delicate balance between preserving the original intent of the artwork and addressing issues on highly sensitive surfaces. As a conservator, a thorough understanding of the history and materiality of an artwork, along with the artist's intention, enables us to make the best possible decisions when preserving and restoring artworks.
MODERN & CONTEMPORARY SCULPTURES & INSTALLATIONS
Modern and contemporary sculptures and installations represent unique experiments with nontraditional materials, innovative technologies, and unusual applications. We focus on the conservation of modern materials such as silicone rubber, polyurethane foam, vacuum-formed polystyrene reliefs, epoxy resin coated surfaces and other painted artworks in indoor and outdoor environments. Conservation of contemporary art today requires an investigation into these materials, the artists intent and to understand how the work was made before considering any treatment.
DESIGN OBJECTS
Plastics
Plastics have a history and tell stories: The celluloid tin from 1890, Joe Colombo's "Tube Chair" from 1969, Jonathan de Pas inflatable armchair from 1967, Eero Aarnio's Tomaatti and many more: Plastic design objects and furniture are worth seeing and preserving! Each type of object requires a unique approach of conservation depending on the nature, status and functionality of the artefact.
TECHNICAL STUDIES
Mapping & imaging
Macro and micro-scale observation, imaging, and scientific analysis contribute to a deeper understanding of the materiality of the artwork and its history. The gathered information can, among other things, facilitate the development of a suitable treatment proposal. Based on the conducted study, our studio can provide a report and/or offer advice on the conservation status of the artwork.
FRAMING
Wooden & metal frame
The framing of panels is given special attention. Any constraint imposed by the holding system has detrimental consequences for the proper preservation of the artwork. Therefore, these systems will be flexible, in limited quantity, and preferably arranged along the edges of the end grain wood. Curved panels may require a curvature profile crafted within the frame rebate that precisely matches the panel's curvature. The workshop also offers custom-made oak frames in the style of the 14th and 15th centuries, weathered or not, as well as metal frames adapted to various issues related to panels and sculptures.
PREVENTIVE CONSERVATION
Microclimate frame - Packing
Preserving artworks also mean adapting our approach to their environment. Several factors have a direct influence on the stability of their condition. Reaching a better understanding of the conservation context allows us to create the best exhibition and storage conditions. To emphasise this, we offer a long term survey of collections, as well as emergency and disaster management protocoles. Works of art are often subject to transportation and long term storage. Their safe handling is an essential part of the conservation protocol. To meet this particular need, we manufacture suitable and specific packing systems for each object. In certain cases highly sensitive to climatic variations, it is sometimes necessary to create a climate-controlled box around the artwork by adapting the framing for this purpose. The panel is placed on a balsa curvature profil if necessary, the front is closed with conservation glass, and the back is sealed with conservation plexiglass or cellular polycarbonate. The entire structure is sealed with an adhesive that is impermeable to climatic exchanges. The opportunity to use Artsorb sheets or other buffering materials is to be discussed with the custodians of the artwork based on conservation conditions.