Description

​This Neoclassical gilded frame was in a poor condition with structural issues, lost decorative ornament, heavily stained areas and various cracking and losses to the gilded surface. As the frame is on constant display, these problems needed to be addressed.

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Treatment

The top and bottom frames were taken apart to allow for the surface debris to be removed and sections of timber that had deteriorated to be replaced.

Casts were taken of extant ornament to allow new pieces to be made from compo, and all replaced elements were gilded, toned and distressed to create a cohesive look across the frame.

Patches of bronze paint visible on the sanded frieze were reduced using a conservation gel and touched in with gold mica powders.

Several different types of gilding could be seen across the frame so this needed to be replicated on areas that were reconstructed.

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