I restore European paintings on canvas and wood from the early Gothic period to the early 20th century. I also restore Greek and Russian icons.
I have been working as a conservator for over 36 years, including 15 years for the Louvre and French Provincial Museums. In 1999, I moved to England where I have since worked privately for the Hamilton Kerr Institute (Cambridge), The National Trust, English Heritage, The Royal Collection Trust, London art dealers and other private clients.
I provide complete conservation treatments including varnish removal, minor canvas treatment, consolidation, puttying, retouching, and final varnishing. I am also able to provide minimal treatments to present a painting for sale, such as surface cleaning, consolidation and varnishing.
I am prepared to work on site but also offer collection and delivery services (with additional charges for transport). Estimates are charged if only for a quote with tests. The cost of examination and tests are deducted from the final project cost if the painting is subsequently bought in for treatment.
No additional charges apply for treatment materials, except in cases requiring unusual materials. Framing conservation or restoration can also be provided through the practice by a qualified museum conservator with the painting reframed in studio.
During treatment some analysis may be necessary to complete and enlighten the understanding of the conservation work undertaken. Pigments analysis, UV, IR photos, X Rays can be provided when and if necessary.
Client Testimonials
We have known and worked with Therese for almost 20 years and can attest to the fact that she produces top level quality museum conservation work.
Therese is an excellent conservator, patient, skilful and resourceful. The work she has done for us has been exemplary, and she has worked on some very challenging projects for us. She has a sophisticated eye for colour matching and a sensitive feel for antique ethics, always managing to bring back artworks to their original vibrancy. She has the ability to make a picture come alive again, with all the details, rich colours and tones restored. She can work to a time table and is very good listening to our needs and explaining procedures. Her attention to every details from shipping to analysis to conservation is always very professional. We would not hesitate in recommending her for the conservation of fine arts paintings.”
Dino Tomass
Tomasso Brothers Fine Art
Recently, Therese cleaned and repaired two oil paintings for me. One by J Thors and one by William West. The Thors was a dark and lifeless picture of a country scene due to many decades of dust and smoke. After extensive cleaning it now has come to life. The cloud definition is exquisite whereas before it all looked grey. The West, an indoor scene of a family drinking in the parlour, was in a very poor condition. It required extensive restoration of cracked paint and dirt removal. This has been done with great skill and empathy and the scene is vibrant again. Therese is a very skilled, experienced and accomplished conservator. She kept me fully informed of the progress and I have been very pleased with the results. I can thoroughly recommend her.
Dr JK Gillman-Wells
Private Client