Monday, December 4, 2023

Unveiling the Art Conservation Process - How Paintings are Cleaned

Are you grappling with a painting in need of cleaning or simply curious about the intricate process behind restoring decades or even centuries-old artworks? This article addresses one of the most common queries posed to art conservators: "How are paintings cleaned?" Join me as we delve into the nuances of this delicate process.

Victorian-era portrait by G.A. Cuomo circa 1880

When entrusted with restoring a Victorian 1880s oil painting by a Las Vegas art gallery, I initially anticipated a routine removal of yellowed varnish. Despite my 40 years of experience, I approached the task with humility, emphasizing the crucial role of meticulous analysis and caution in preserving the artwork's integrity.


Contrary to the common misconception that I run into often in Las Vegas, which is: estimating painting cleaning is a per-square-inch task feasible over the phone, the reality is far more intricate. The safe cleaning of aged oil paintings involves thorough solubility tests with various solvents, ensuring the varnish's dissolution without compromising the original paint. Utilizing tools such as head-mounted magnifiers and stereo binocular microscopes, we meticulously examine each artwork, recognizing the significant variability in varnish qualities.

In the case of this particular painting, initial estimates suggested a $300 investment for a complete and safe cleaning. However, unforeseen challenges surfaced, leading to a $1,200.00 expenditure to meticulously eliminate every trace of yellowed varnish and dust without compromising the original paint.


The art conservation process, encompassing cleaning, often embarks on a "discovery process" that unveils hidden intricacies and demands adaptability. While estimates are typically precise, occasional unknown factors underscore the dynamic nature of art restoration.


This example provides a glimpse into the intricate world of estimating and discovery during the cleaning process, revealing why answering the question, "How are paintings cleaned?" is not as straightforward as it may seem. Armed with this knowledge, you can engage in meaningful conversations with art conservators about the conservation process. As we extend our art conservation services to the vibrant Las Vegas community, we invite you to join us on the captivating journey of art conservation and restoration, where each masterpiece harbors a unique story waiting to be unveiled.


image of the Las Vegas welcome sign with the strip in the background


Do you need help with an insurance claim relating to artwork? We can help.

We can answer more questions than just, "How are paintings cleaned?". Fine Art Conservation Laboratories’ 45 years of expertise in preserving and restoring art offers invaluable help and practical knowledge for helping people through the insurance claim process for damaged collectibles and art pieces. Our experienced team understands the complexities of insurance claims related to art, heirlooms, and antiques, providing reports that are properly prepared with information that the insurance company never puts in doubt. Fine Art Conservation Laboratories charges flat fees for this work, not a percentage of the claim settlement, and our expertise is honored nationwide. Let us help make the art, heirloom, and collectible part of the insurance claim process as seamless as possible and preserve your peace of mind. Click here for more about insurance claims.

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