Virginia Art Conservation and Restoration, LLC
Conservators of Fine Art
Cleanings involve the removal of aged and discolored varnish, dirt, grime, smoke or other accretions. Although considered by many to be a benign procedure, improper cleanings by unskilled hands ranks among the most dangerous of restoration processes.
Before and After Cleaning
This portrait of Rudolph Valentino was done during the filming of the movie "The Sheik" in the early 1920's. It suffered from over 80 years of heavy smoke buildup on top of badly discolored varnish. The heavy smoke buildup was carefully removed followed by removal of yellowed varnish. Notice how the original colors have been revealed. Finally a protective varnish was applied after minor in-painting to cover some areas that had missing paint.
Early 19th Century Portrait Before and After Cleaning
Copy of Gilbert Stuart Vaughn Style portrait of George Washington
19th Century Portrait Before and After Cleaning
18th Century Portrait Before and After Cleaning
Additional Paintings During the Cleaning Process
