Dr Clare Finn ACR

16 Apr 2025

Clare is an accredited member of Icon, the UK Institute for Conservation and a Fellow of the IIC, International Institute for Conservation.

With 50 years’ experience she has built up a specialist knowledge of techniques and conservation problems not only of the Old Masters but also the Major Impressionists, Post Impressionists, Russian avant-garde as well as Modern British Paintings.

Detail

Lead soaps

Conservation of a copy of Joshua Reynolds “Thaia”, oil on panel

The painting was entirely obscured by several layers of discoloured and varnish that had a crepuscular texture. This varnish was removed to reveal the original colouring of the paint. Artists’ shrinkage cracks and abrasions were retouched and the painting was refitted into its frame. The frame was not treated at the clients’ request.

Conservation of a copy of Joshua Reynolds “Thaia”, oil on panel

Erhard, 19th Century single action harp

The project comprised removing layers of later faux bois overpaint from the harp’s sound box, column and neck to reveal its original decorative scheme, black background with a vermillion red decorative frieze. this removal was done mechanically with scalpels under magnification. Minimum retouching was carried out to allow what survived of the original scheme to be presented to advantage.

Erhard, 19th Century single action harp

Then layers of bronze paint that had been applied to the column’s flutes and capital were removed chemically. these areas were then regilded in different colours of gold using several gilding techniques; water, size and oil for contrast. The new gilding was toned to blend in with the original decorative scheme that had been uncovered. The harp was then subsequently restrung and brought back into a playable condition.

Erhard, 19th Century single action harp

Biography

Clare Finn

Dr. Clare Finn has been a conservator for over 50 years. Trained initially in the North East of England, then in Switzerland, Germany and Italy. She set up and ran the conservation department at Coventry Museums, before becoming a consultant to Sotheby’s Impressionist and Modern Art department, which she held for 30 years.

She also undertook a doctorate on Picasso’s Decorative Metalwork at London’s Royal College of Art, and has contributed to exhibitions in Europe, publishing research in Apollo and the Burlington Magazine. She is part of the Picasso Bronze Project with the Musée National Picasso, Paris and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Client Testimonials

I have known and worked with Dr Finn for almost two decades, her counsel has been invaluable. The conservation treatments she executed were of high standards and enhanced the longevity of my clients paintings, which was always greatly appreciated appreciated. I strongly recommend her services.

Renee Pfister
Art and Gallery Consultant

I have known and worked with Clare Finn for 6 years. She is extremely knowledgeable, thoughtful and personable. Not only are her acute observations insightful and helpful, but she is practically highly skilled. She has a vast knowledge and is extremely well connected and able to call on a plethora of experts to corroborate her view or from whom to seek further advice.

Corinne Julius
Critic and Curator

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