30×24 Portrait with Oval Frame
This antique portrait had been framed for decades in a large gold frame with an oval liner. Visible in the before photos is the outline of the wooden liner that had broken and warped over time, while pressing against the painting. Not only did this trap moisture against the painting, enabling mildew and mold to form, but it also caused some rippling to the canvas and minor paint loss. Layers of dirt and yellowed varnish had dulled the deep black color of the man’s jacket.
The first step was to remediate the mold and clean the painting and re-stretch the canvas in order to remove the ripples in the corner. Then the areas of paint loss were touched in and the piece was given a new, fresh coat varnish making for a more consistent surface.
The result is fantastic. Although the deep oval imprint could not be 100% removed, it is no so subtle that it’s hardly noticeable unless you really look hard for it.
We also repaired the frame and broken liner so the owner could keep the oval look that she desired.
