|
RESTORATION STUDY BY THE UPPER MIDWEST CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION
David Marquis, senior paintings conservator of the Upper Midwest Conservation Association in Minneapolis came to St. John Nepomucene Church to examine the painting of Sts. Cyril and Methodius. After a thorough examination of the painting, David Marquis cleaned the painting in two small test sites of about one inch in diameter. The resulting difference was very dramatic. However, cleaning the painting is just part of the restoration. The effects of aging and deterioration, environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, light, and accidental tears all contribute to the paintings present condition. In addition to the treatment cost, a custom stretcher would need to be built, and the work would need to be shipped to and from their lab by an art shipping service. Structurally, the painting is unstable. The wooden support for the canvas will need to be replaced with a spring expansion stretcher frame. This adjustable stretcher frame will utilize 3"-3-½" stock. The linen support (canvas) will need to bonded to a support fabric on the reverse side with a non-penetrating thermoplastic adhesive. Flaking and insecure paint layers will need to be consolidated. Dirt, and soot accretions on the surface are extensive and small test sites indicate the results of cleaning will be dramatic. Mechanical damage such as scratches, nicks, small tears and punctures are visible and will need to be repaired. Distortions in the surface will need to be flattened with mild moisture/heat treatment. Losses in the paint ground layer will need to be filled in with a non-yellowing, stable, synthetic resin medium. Apply a final protective synthetic resin varnish. Attach a protective backing board to the back of the stetcher frame. Line the frame with felt where the canvas touches the frame, to prevent abrasions. Photodocumentation will be carried out throughout various stages of the restoration process. Pack painting for return. Write report on treatment. The frame will also require extensive cleaning of dirt, soot, and occassional bird droppings. The arch of the frame is misshapen and possibly could be corrected. At the crest of the arch a small section of plaster ornamentation is missing and probably will be replaced. Regilding may be required over the entire surface of the frame. Recommendations for treatment of the frame will be proposed by the picture frame conservators during the time of restoration of the painting, and a more accurate estimate of this cost will be acquired. Note: for more information about the Upper Midwest Conservation Association, visit their website at preserveart.org. |