examples
SERVICES
GOLDEN BLOOM, based in Leidschendam, offers the following services:
paintings
conservation and restoration
Wooden Objects
conservation and restoration
Commissioned Paintings
and art reproduction
Conservation and Restoration of Paintings
Every painting tells a story. Not only the one the image tells us - but also another one. One about the things that it is made of, about its life, its aging and the damages it might have carried away. Only after seeing and understanding all the different aspects of a painting, a conservation and restoration process – with respect for the artwork and the artist`s intentions - can begin.
Surface Cleaning
Often, removing the surface dirt is enough to let an artwork shine again. It lets us enjoy all the colors and contrasts in their full glory. Sometimes it can change the image of a dark, depressing afternoon into a warm, sunny, promising morning.
In order to clean a painting's surface, the artwork has to be carefully examined to begin with. Dirt has a lot of varieties - and so does the paint underneath it. Only after some testing the restorer can determine the appropriate approach to cleaning the surface of a specific artwork.
Varnish Removal
The paint layer of an artwork is often covered by a varnish (a thin layer of resin) which was mainly applied to make the surface glossy, deepen colors and contrasts and protect the paint from damage. With time, the varnish can become yellow, sometimes greyish and dull or show other unwanted damages/changes. The varnish can often be removed and replaced by a new one.
Consolidation
Rejoining things that belong together can be a challenge - especially when it comes to tiny paint flakes. And loose parts are an issue that gets addressed better sooner than later.
Tear Repair
A tear in the support of a painting might look dramatic... but it can be fixed. There are many different methods - depending on the exact nature of the damage.
Filling and Retouching
Paint losses are very common. After consolidating the paint layer, they can be filled and retouched.
Frame Conservation
Frames are often artworks on their own - chosen carefully or even especially designed to match the painting. The restoration of a frame is similar to that of a polychrome sculpture.
Condition Checks
Checking and documenting the condition of an artwork is an important part of its conservation and helps detecting possible damage at an early stage.
Conservation of polychrome wooden objects
Wood can have a fascinating life of its own. It ages and reacts to the climate conditions. It can grow and shrink, wharp and crack. Sadly, paintlayers often cannot keep up with this exciting lifestyle and loose adhesion. Polychrome wooden objects are therefore often overpainted - not just once but several times.
